The Dominican Republic has consented to the United States’ use of its military installations, specifically the San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport, to combat international organized crime. This collaboration was announced after a meeting between President Luis Abinader and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the National Palace in Santo Domingo. The agreement permits the use of restricted areas at these facilities for refueling, transporting equipment, and accommodating technical personnel. The move is part of a broader effort to address organized crime in the region, with the U.S. citing the need to disrupt transnational criminal networks.
President Abinader emphasized that the collaboration will enhance regional security and strengthen the Dominican Republic’s ability to tackle organized crime. He stated that the agreement will be used to support joint operations with international partners, including the U.S., to dismantle criminal networks operating across borders. The use of these facilities is expected to facilitate faster and more efficient deployments of resources, improving the effectiveness of anti-crime initiatives in the region.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking after the meeting, highlighted the importance of the partnership in combating global threats. He noted that the Dominican Republic’s cooperation will enable the U.S. to conduct critical operations more efficiently, ensuring that military and technical assets can be deployed quickly. Both leaders expressed confidence that this collaboration will contribute to long-term stability and security in the region, addressing the root causes of organized crime and promoting economic development.