The US cannot deny this disaster. Its drug warriors must re-evaluate their position and terminate what has become an increasingly senseless and futile struggle. Thus, the most critical question facing Kelly as he assumes his new command is whether he can redefine USSOUTHCOM’s role in the fight against illegal drugs.
The military and political challenges are significant, the risks considerable, and the benefits uncertain. However, if USSOUTHCOM does not implement major changes in how it prosecutes the drug war, the US will find itself facing an increasingly volatile and dangerous set of neighbors to the south.
Juan Gabriel Tokatlian is a professor of international relations at the Universidad di Tella in Buenos Aires.
Copyright: Project Syndicate