Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III highlighted the importance of U.S. partnerships across Latin America and the Caribbean at the U.S. Southern Command (Southcom) change of command ceremony.
Held at Southcom headquarters in Florida, the event marked the handover from Army General Laura J. Richardson to Navy Admin Alvin Holsey.
With rising security challenges in the region, Austin noted how partnerships serve as the cornerstone of efforts to support democracy and security throughout the Western Hemisphere.
Strengthening Regional Ties: A Priority for Austin
The change of command ceremony saw Austin acknowledging Gen. Richardson’s successful leadership, marked by expanded partnerships and strategic exercises.
Richardson worked alongside over 30 nations in joint training, contributing to regional stability in a time of heightened migration, organized crime, and security threats.
Austin underscored the importance of these alliances, stating,
“Our partnerships with countries across this hemisphere aren’t just formalities—they’re essential for shared security and prosperity.”
He noted that Southcom’s success hinges on close ties with Latin American allies, particularly when addressing:
- Transnational Crime: Organized crime networks pose complex threats to regional safety, requiring joint efforts to counter drug trafficking and arms smuggling.
- Irregular Migration: Unpredictable migration trends challenge regional stability and demand collaborative solutions.
Austin’s comments highlighted Richardson’s achievements during her tenure, including leading 24 military exercises with nearly 40,000 participants from across the Americas. These efforts have increased operational alignment and strengthened trust among partner nations.
New Leadership, New Era
As Adm. Alvin Holsey steps into his role, he becomes the first African American to command Southcom, following Richardson, the first woman to lead the organization. Both milestones reflect a broader commitment within the U.S. Department of Defense to inclusivity in leadership, a point Austin noted during the ceremony.
Holsey, who brings extensive experience and a commitment to regional security, affirmed his dedication to advancing U.S. partnerships.
In his remarks, he said,
“Our partnerships aren’t just a defense mechanism; they’re a collective strength. Working together, we’re better prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead.”
Holsey emphasized how these alliances offer more than military benefits; they also support broader economic, social, and political stability. He sees cooperation with allies as a way to build resilience across the region’s democracies.
U.S. Regional Priorities in a Time of Rising Competition
Austin’s remarks included a call to action in response to growing geopolitical tensions in the region. He expressed concerns over China’s increasing influence and pointed to the ways in which China and Russia may exploit vulnerabilities across Latin America for their strategic advantage.
Challenges and Regional Responses
Challenge |
U.S. and Regional Response |
|---|---|
| Transnational Crime | Joint intelligence sharing and counter-narcotics operations |
| Migration | Regional coordination on border management and humanitarian aid |
| Geopolitical Competition | Enhanced U.S. engagement to counter external influence |
Austin stated that the United States takes a collaborative, values-based approach to these challenges, prioritizing democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law.
He assured allies that the U.S. remains a steady partner in the face of external pressures, including “unjust economic practices and disinformation.”
Holsey echoed Austin’s concerns about foreign influence, stressing that the U.S. would support countries that stand with democratic principles.
He stated, “In every way, our partnerships are a shared commitment to uphold democracy and freedom.”
Southcom’s Future: Advancing Security through Partnership
The U.S. Southern Command’s collaborative efforts are central to creating a resilient Western Hemisphere that can confront evolving security threats.
Holsey aims to build on Richardson’s achievements by deepening cooperation in various areas, including counter-terrorism, cyber defense, and disaster preparedness.
Holsey’s Priorities Include:
- Intensifying Joint Military Exercises: Continued coordination with allies to build readiness and improve operational flexibility.
- Expanding Intelligence Cooperation: Enhanced information sharing to disrupt criminal and terrorist networks.
Holsey believes that sustained engagement with allied nations is essential to making the region safer and more secure. Southcom’s emphasis on humanitarian aid and disaster relief—especially during natural disasters—is another area he is committed to strengthening.
A Renewed Focus on Shared Values
At a time when global competition and regional challenges are on the rise, Austin’s emphasis on partnerships highlights the U.S.’s strategy for ensuring stability in the Americas.
Both Austin and Holsey reinforced the message that regional cooperation, rooted in democratic values, is crucial for addressing complex security issues.
New SOUTHCOM leadership emphasizes strengthening partnerships for shared security, prosperity and regional stability across Latin America and the Caribbean. Adm. Holsey leads Southcom, strengthening regional alliances to confront challenges and secure a prosperous future together effectively.
Sources: THX News & US Department of Defense.
