Former presidents Boric and Bachelet express concern over 'Escudo de las Américas'

Former Chilean presidents Michelle Bachelet and Gabriel Boric issued a joint statement expressing concern over the current government's decision to join the "Escudo de las Américas" initiative. They urged the administration of President Kast to reconsider Chile's participation in the security pact. The statement marked an unusual intervention in foreign policy by former leaders.

Their call has drawn sharp criticism from within the ruling coalition, with some officials dismissing the former presidents' input as outdated or politically motivated. The "Escudo de las Américas" is a security cooperation framework, and the debate highlights differing approaches to Chile's international alliances and national defense strategy.