Lieutenant General Evan L. Pettus officially assumed command of the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) on Friday, the U.S. military structure responsible for operations in Latin America and the Caribbean, where Washington has deployed thousands of troops in recent months as part of an alleged offensive against drug traffickers in the region.
The change-of-command ceremony was held at SOUTHCOM headquarters in Doral, Florida, marking a significant shift amid growing U.S. military activity in the Caribbean.
Key leadership at a time of military expansion
During his speech, Evan L. Pettus expressed his satisfaction and sense of responsibility in assuming this strategic position:
«I am honored to assume this position as acting commander of the U.S. Southern Command«, he declared before military and civilian authorities.
Pettus, who previously served as commander of the Southern Command’s air forces, will now be responsible for overseeing the military buildup in the Caribbean and coordinating the controversial operations against suspected drug traffickers at various points in the region.
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SOUTHCOM intensifies actions against suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean
Pettus’s appointment comes at a time when the United States has reinforced its armed presence in strategic areas of the Caribbean Sea and in allied Latin American countries, under the pretext of combating transnational criminal organizations engaged in drug trafficking.
However, these operations have sparked debate due to attacks on alleged drug-smuggling speedboats, actions that have been questioned for their transparency, legal framework, and impact on the region.
Admiral Alvin “Bull” Holsey’s departure: a change of command surrounded by questions
Evan L. Pettus replaces Admiral Alvin “Bull” Holsey, who retired after 37 years of service. Holsey announced in October that he was stepping down as head of Southern Command, although the official reasons were not disclosed either by him or by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
According to U.S. media, Holsey reportedly expressed concern about attacks on suspected drug-smuggling boats, which may have influenced his decision to step down. However, no authority has publicly confirmed these reports.
What does Pettus’s arrival mean for Latin America and the Caribbean?
Pettus’s leadership could mark a stage of:
- Greater U.S. military presence in the Caribbean
- Reinforcement of anti-drug operations in Latin America
- Expanded cooperation with governments in the region
- Continuity of security strategies driven by Washington
At the same time, international analysts warn that the intensification of these actions could increase diplomatic tensions and open discussions about regional sovereignty and the use of force in maritime operations.
