Across Latin America, the return of Donald Trump to the presidency has elicited a range of reactions, from anxiety over potential policy shifts to optimism about strengthened alliances. Nations with leftist leanings are bracing for increased scrutiny and potential sanctions, while those with more conservative governments foresee opportunities for closer collaboration with the U.S.

Experts believe that U.S. adversaries in the region, such as Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Bolivia, may reconsider aggressive tactics due to the anticipated projection of strength from the Trump administration. Joseph Humire, Executive Director of the Center for a Secure Free Society, suggests these nations will be more cautious in provoking conflict and aligning with countries like China, Russia, and Iran.

FILE - President-elect Donald Trump (Allison Robbert/Pool via AP, File)

Humire highlights the core tenets of "Trumpism" as a return to national sovereignty and burden sharing in foreign policy, emphasizing a strong domestic foundation as essential for projecting power abroad. He points to the swift meeting between Trump and Argentinian President Javier Milei as a sign of the positive reception among some Latin American leaders. This meeting, Humire argues, signals a potential rise of right-wing, conservative, and libertarian leaders in the region who are more aligned with U.S. interests.

Mexico, given its close economic ties with the U.S., is particularly sensitive to potential changes in trade and immigration policies. The administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum is understandably concerned about the impact of stricter immigration enforcement and potential trade renegotiations.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos)

Colombia, under President Gustavo Petro, is worried about potential shifts in U.S. drug policy and security cooperation, fearing a more forceful approach could hinder peace processes and anti-narcotics efforts. Meanwhile, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela – often labeled the “troika of tyranny” – anticipate intensified sanctions and diplomatic pressure, especially with the appointment of Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.

China's President Xi Jinping (center R) with Cuba's First Vice President Miguel Diaz-Canel (center L) (Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images)

Chilean economist Axel Kaiser believes Rubio's appointment as Secretary of State will be beneficial for Latin America, as Rubio understands the region's political landscape and will likely take a firm stance against authoritarian left-wing governments. Kaiser also suggests that Trump's return could bolster conservative leaders across the region, including figures in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.

Then-President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil with U.S. President Donald Trump (Chris Kleponis/Pool via Bloomberg)

Argentina, under the libertarian President Javier Milei, anticipates a strengthening of ties with the U.S., hoping for support in securing IMF loans and attracting investment. Brazil, with its right-leaning government, may also find common ground with the Trump administration on trade and security issues, potentially leading to increased U.S. investment.

Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) (Reuters/Mike Segar)

Colombian Senator Paola Holguin expressed optimism about Trump's return, believing his administration's expertise on regional security and democracy will benefit Latin America. She anticipates a tougher stance against authoritarian regimes in the region.

Protest against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro (Photo by Raul Arboleda/AFP via Getty Images)

While the ultimate impact of Trump's return remains to be seen, it is clear that his presidency will significantly influence the political and economic landscape of Latin America.