DORAL, Florida — President Donald Trump announced a major new security initiative aimed at dismantling drug cartels across Latin America, emphasizing that the United States is prepared to use decisive military power to support allied nations battling organized crime.

Speaking at the Shield of the Americas Summit in Florida, Trump signed a proclamation launching a regional effort to confront cartel networks and strengthen security cooperation throughout the hemisphere. Surrounded by leaders from multiple Latin American countries, Trump said the initiative represents a strong commitment to protecting communities and restoring stability across the region.

“This is about destroying the dangerous cartels and terrorist organizations that threaten our people,” Trump said during the signing ceremony. He highlighted the capabilities of the U.S. military and called on partner nations to work closely with Washington by sharing intelligence on cartel operations.

“We need your help,” Trump told the assembled leaders. “If you know where these criminals are operating, tell us — and we will help you eliminate the threat.”

Seventeen countries signed a joint security declaration supporting the initiative, known as the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition, during meetings with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and U.S. Southern Command officials. The coalition aims to coordinate intelligence, law enforcement and military resources to combat transnational criminal organizations responsible for drug trafficking, violence and instability throughout the hemisphere.

The initiative is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to strengthen partnerships across the Americas, reduce illegal migration and cut off the flow of narcotics into the United States. The policy also seeks to counter growing foreign influence in the region and reinforce cooperation among democratic allies.

Under the proclamation, the United States and its partners will work together to build what the administration described as “the most effective joint force possible” to dismantle cartel networks.

Trump also emphasized that the Western Hemisphere must remain a priority for American foreign policy.

“Our region is extremely important,” Trump said. “For too many years it was neglected. We are rebuilding strong relationships with our neighbors and standing together against crime and instability.”

Earlier in the week, U.S. Southern Command confirmed that American military forces joined Ecuadorian security forces in operations targeting what officials described as narco-terrorist organizations. Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa, who attended the summit, welcomed the expanded cooperation.

Other leaders present at the gathering included Argentine President Javier Milei, El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, and Chile’s president-elect José Antonio Kast, along with representatives from Bolivia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago.

Administration officials say the coalition marks a new chapter in hemispheric security cooperation and demonstrates President Trump’s commitment to confronting organized crime and protecting the Americas from cartel violence.