The Monroe Doctrine: Peru, Brazil, and China

https://maritime-executive.com/editorials/china-s-man-in-peru-at-center-of-chancay-megaport

Once again Peru is in the news. The United States is sending clear signals that it is unhappy with China's growing footprint in Latin America - a clear violation of The Monroe Doctrine which is (unofficially) still in effect.

As I reported in August 2025, Xi Jinping visited Peru and likewise the Peruvian president Dina Boluarte has also visited Beijing.

Worse (from the American perspective), this new port is connected by rail to Brazil which opens up new options for Lula and a tighter network of BRICS-nation trade.

While the US wants to suggest this will be a gateway for the Chinese military, there's no evidence of that. That would represent a major shift in Chinese policy and an escalation of tension with Washington. However, should Washington continue to press Beijing in the South China Sea, Xi at least has some more options. As far as the port of Chancay becoming an espionage hub for Beijing, of that there can be no doubt. But it would be dishonest to not suggest the US will be doing the same - and working toward regime change in Lima as well.

While the geopolitics are certainly a major issue for consideration, the real concern regarding Peru is about copper and the fact that Beijing has secured a majority of Peruvian exports. These are resources the US wants - and desperately wants to deny Beijing.

While the US has made some political gains in Central America, Washington is running out of options in South America. The relationship with long-time ally Colombia has become shaky. Bolsonaro's coup in Brazil failed and he's facing prison. Bolivia remains up in the air.

The US is looking to secure its relationship with Ecuador and support figures like Millei in Argentina. It's clear the long-term goal of overthrowing the Venezuelan government has become more pressing than ever as the US wants to establish a secure footing in South America - one that can be utilised to affect a wider area and the region's geopolitics.

One thing is certain - the US is not simply going to walk away from Peru and the larger South American theatre. If violence is required, it will be employed. Woe to the Peruvian people.

See also:

https://pilgrimunderground.blogspot.com/2025/08/peru-china-and-pentagon.html