Americas pledge to double down on crime at Peru summit

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, July 12, 2026

Over 30 American countries agreed to strengthen cooperation against organized crime and other transnational threats at the 17th Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas in Cusco, Peru. The binding Cusco Declaration highlights the urgent need for regional collaboration to address high homicide rates, cross-border criminal groups like Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang, and emerging security challenges such as cyber defense and climate change.

More than 30 countries from North and South America committed to enhancing cooperation against organized crime during the 17th Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas held last week in Cusco, Peru. The summit, which took place over three days, culminated in the adoption of the Cusco Declaration, outlining a coordinated response to transnational threats affecting the region.

According to United Nations data, the Americas experience the world’s highest homicide rates, averaging 15 per 100,000 inhabitants, with approximately half linked to organized criminal activity. Recognizing this challenge, participating nations pledged to intensify joint efforts to counteract transnational organized crime, terrorism, illicit economies, and other emerging threats.

A US official attending the conference emphasized Washington’s commitment to leveraging its influence to address the region’s rising crime levels. Pentagon official Elbridge Colby highlighted recent shifts in American policy under President Donald Trump, noting that the security decisions of individual countries have direct consequences for their neighbors. "We live in the same neighborhood," Colby said, underscoring the interconnected nature of regional stability.

The declaration also underscored the need to strengthen regional collaboration in humanitarian assistance and disaster response, reflecting growing concerns over the multifaceted security environment. Discussions during the summit further addressed issues such as cyber defense, artificial intelligence, and climate change, broadening the scope of cooperative security initiatives beyond traditional military concerns.

One key focus was the threat posed by organized criminal groups operating across borders. Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang, designated a terrorist organization by the United States in 2025, was cited as an example of how such groups have expanded their operations into neighboring states, complicating law enforcement and security efforts.

The conference represented a significant regional effort to unify defense strategies and enhance multilateral coordination in addressing complex security challenges. The participating defense ministers reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative approaches aimed at improving safety and stability throughout the Americas.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.