Trump assumes a second term with radical and controversial promises on his agenda.

Donald Trump's new term, which begins on January 20, is filled with bold promises and controversial appointments. With the intention of implementing a radical agenda, the magnate has announced the signing of a series of decrees aimed, among other things, at carrying out a "mass deportation" of undocumented immigrants. However, his focus is not limited to immigration; issues such as control over the Panama Canal, imposing tariffs on Mexico, and resolving the conflict in Ukraine are also central to his agenda. To realize his ambitious goals, Trump has chosen a team of loyalists who, while lacking traditional experience for the high positions they will hold, share his ideology and vision. Defense and Intelligence analyst Andrés Gómez de la Torre has identified four common characteristics among the appointed officials: many are lawyers, there is a strong presence of Cubans in foreign policy, figures from the national security establishment are included, and there are conservatives linked to various religions. The new administration's focus on Latin America will primarily revolve around migration and consular policies. The crisis of Venezuelan migrants and the growing influence of China in the region are two issues that will likely dominate discussions. Additionally, the fight against drug trafficking, particularly in relation to fentanyl, is expected to be a priority, with proposals considering the possibility of designating Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations. A notable change in the geopolitical dynamics of the region is anticipated with Argentina, where Javier Milei, a fervent Trump ally, will take the lead. This could displace Brazil from its role as a key interlocutor for the United States, which, according to Gómez de la Torre, could reconfigure hemispheric relations based on the understanding between Buenos Aires and Trump's new administration. This second term will take place in a context where Republicans control Congress, giving Trump unprecedented freedom of action. Without the pressures of a potential reelection, there are expectations that his foreign and security policies will be implemented more aggressively and decisively. Among his team, Marco Rubio stands out, a politician with Cuban roots who has been a constant critic of Maduro's regime in Venezuela. He has also spoken about the need to reconsider oil licenses for companies like Chevron. Rubio's selection as Secretary of State suggests a more belligerent approach toward Latin American nations. Another controversial appointment is Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. His career in media, particularly at Fox News, has raised criticisms about his suitability to lead the Pentagon, although Trump has praised his book on the welfare of military members. Hegseth's nomination, a former military man with a conservative approach, reflects Trump's desire to maintain a defense policy aligned with his own principles. Kristi Noem, the governor of South Dakota, will take on the role of Secretary of Homeland Security, where she will be responsible for implementing the immigration policies that Trump has promised. Her commitment to reversing her predecessor's policies and carrying out mass deportations signals a continuity with Trump's vigorous approach to immigration. The appointment of Thomas Homan as "border czar" also indicates the intention to adopt a tough stance on immigration policy. Homan, who was already a prominent figure in ICE during Trump's first term, has been a proponent of family separation policies and has promised to carry out an unprecedented deportation operation. Finally, the figure of Stephen Miller, an architect of Trump's most controversial immigration policies, reemerges as a key leader in the administration. His influence on issues such as the ban on citizens from predominantly Muslim countries and his role in the separation of migrant families reflects an approach that could lead to an even greater tightening of immigration policies if Trump manages to implement his agenda. In summary, Donald Trump's second term is shaping up to be a period of radical action, with a team that reflects his ideology and a determined approach to issues that have polarized American society. The decisions he makes in the early days of his administration will be crucial not only for the future of the United States but also for international relations, especially in Latin America. With a complex and polarized landscape, the world is closely watching how this new phase of Trump's leadership will unfold.