Santo Domingo.– The Dominican Republic clarified this Monday that the authorization granted to the United States to use air spaces and facilities with anti-drug fines will have a Limited validity until April of next year. This was confirmed by the president Luis Abinaderduring his weekly meeting with the press.
The president pointed out that this is not a new agreement, but rather an update of the original agreement signed in 1995 whose protocol was reaffirmed in 2003 aimed at strengthening interd capabilities.
“This agreement has existed since 1995, it was ratified in 2003 and is aimed at combating drug trafficking through the detection and neutralization of air and sea routes,” Abinader explained.
The head of state also downplayed criticism from left-wing sectors and civil society groups that have called the measure a supposed “cession.” of sovereignty to the United States.
The clarification arose after the announcement made last week, after the president’s meeting with the US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth where it was reported that the country temporarily authorized the US to use restricted areas of the San Isidro Air Base and of Las Americas International Airport for operations linked to the fight against drug trafficking.
These actions include the refueling of aircraft, the transfer of equipment and the deployment of specialized personnel.
“The objective is clear: to reinforce the air and maritime protection ring of our Armed Forces, decisive support to prevent the entry of drugs and hit organized crime with greater force,” the president reiterated.
Abinader added that this cooperation includes technological assistance, information exchange and operational integration with the Dominican Navy and specialized security agencies.
Finally, he insisted that this is a “strictly temporary” measure, adopted under the national interest of strengthening border and regional security.
