Guatemala Buys US Weapons After Nearly 50 Years

Guatemala has received its first shipment of military equipment from the United States in nearly 50 years, following Washington’s decision to lift restrictions on military sales to the country.

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo said the equipment is valued at about US$5 million and will support efforts to combat drug trafficking groups, protect the population and strengthen the country’s ability to address transnational organised crime.

The first shipment, delivered Monday, includes M4 rifles, machine guns, grenade launchers and equipment for nighttime special operations, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.

Arévalo said the equipment would strengthen the armed forces’ ability to protect Guatemala’s borders and combat organised crime. He said it must be used “professionally and responsibly and with respect for human rights.”

The resumption of US military sales is part of what the Guatemalan government describes as a new phase of cooperation with Washington and efforts to modernise its armed forces.

Guatemala plans to purchase additional military equipment for its army, navy and air force, according to the Guatemalan government.

The US imposed restrictions on military aid and sales to Guatemala in 1977, during the country’s internal armed conflict. The restrictions followed US criticism of human rights violations attributed to security forces and armed groups at the time.

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