Trump Keeps Close Tabs on Latin American Friends and Foes

Here is a 188-word summary of the news article: The article discusses President Trump's close monitoring of US relations with Latin American countries, both allies and adversaries. While Trump has maintained good ties with leaders like Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro, he has taken a tougher stance against leftist governments in Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua. The administration has increased sanctions and diplomatic pressure on these "troika of tyranny" nations, which it views as threats to American interests in the region. In contrast, Trump has embraced right-wing populists like Bolsonaro, seeing them as ideological allies against socialism. The article notes that Trump's focus on Latin America reflects his broader "America First" foreign policy, which prioritizes protecting US influence and countering perceived adversaries. However, the president's hardline approach has faced criticism from some who argue it undermines regional stability and democratic norms. Overall, the piece highlights how Latin America has emerged as an important foreign policy focus for the Trump White House, with the president closely tracking developments and adjusting US policy accordingly.