Dominican Republic joins regional military exercises in Guatemala

Guatemala.- The United States and several Central American countries, including the Dominican Republic, began joint military exercises in Guatemala on Monday as part of the annual “Centam Guardian” regional cooperation program. The exercises, which run until May 23, aim to strengthen military coordination and regional security.

Organized by the U.S. Army’s Southern Command, the exercises involve joint training, tactical field operations, and military drills, with participation from Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. Guatemalan Army spokesperson Marie Argueta Sosa emphasized that these activities enhance interoperability among allied forces.

U.S. Southern Command Commander Alvin Holsey highlighted the importance of these drills in combating drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations, which continue to threaten regional stability and democracy. He warned that these illicit actors undermine sovereignty and security across the region.

In addition, officials announced that Guatemala and the United States will soon sign an agreement to expand Guatemala’s port infrastructure, with technical support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.