As our correspondent Tom Hennigan noted in his excellent report ahead of the election, Kast will be the latest in a succession of right-wing populists to take power in Latin America. And it warns foreign states and companies that the US now regards Latin America as its own economic sphere of influence too. This is a reference to China, which has expanded its footprint in Latin America since the start of this century, becoming the region’s biggest trading partner. Previous Chilean leaders of all political stripes have taken a pragmatic approach by seeking to remain on good terms with both Washington and Beijing. For all his affinity with Trump, Kast may find this to be the most prudent course, even if it is a tricky one.

Source: The Irish Times December 15, 2025 15:30 UTC