U.S. Military Spending in Latin America Surges to at Least $4.7 Billion Under Trump

The Pentagon has declined to disclose the full financial toll of its military operations in Latin America, but a new analysis by Brown University’s Costs of War Project reveals that U.S. taxpayer dollars have already reached at least $4.7 billion since August 2025. This figure encompasses expenses tied to Venezuelan interventions and Caribbean boat strikes under Operations Absolute Resolve and Southern Spear.

The study, conducted exclusively for The Intercept, details the costs associated with naval deployments, air and special operations, including partial troop deployments and munitions. Researchers emphasize that their estimate is likely an undercount, as the operations lack clear end dates and are actively expanding. Hanna Homestead of the National Priorities Project and Jennifer Kavanagh of Defense Priorities noted that these actions carry significant human, financial, and strategic costs.

Naval deployments alone account for $3.8 billion of the total, with daily operating costs for ships like the USS Iwo Jima and its task force exceeding $9 million. Aircraft deployment costs add another $616 million, including expenses for P-8 Poseidon patrol aircraft, F-35A fighters, and MQ-9 Reaper drones. These figures highlight the substantial financial burden of U.S. military presence in the region.

Under Operation Southern Spear, the U.S. has conducted 53 attacks on so-called drug boats since September 2025, resulting in over 180 civilian deaths. The Trump administration claims its targets are members of unnamed cartels but faces criticism for potential violations of international law. Experts warn that the long-term costs and strategic effectiveness of these operations remain uncertain, raising questions about their impact on U.S. security and regional stability.