Dominican Republic Permits US Limited Access to Bases in War Against Drug Trafficking

Dominican Republic’s President Luis Abinader gestures during a press conference after a meeting with U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth at the National Palace in Santo Domingo on Nov. 26, 2025. Felix Leon/AFP via Getty ImagesDominican Republic President Luis Abinader on Wednesday announced a limited agreement permitting the United States temporary access to restricted areas for refueling aircraft and moving equipment as Washington continues to expand its fight against drug trafficking in the Caribbean.While flanked by U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth, Abinader outlined the agreement at San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport, underscoring its strategic and short-term nature.