Peru delays $3.5bn F-16 deal, cites social priorities
Peru’s interim President Jose Maria Balcazar said on Wednesday that his administration would delay the planned purchase of 24 F-16 fighter jets from the United States, arguing that such a major financial decision should be left to the next elected government.
In a televised address, Balcazar said his government wanted to ensure public funds were used responsibly and in line with the country’s pressing social needs. He said the $3.5 billion acquisition required broader consensus and should be handled by the administration that emerges from the ongoing elections.
The interim leader rejected suggestions that the delay signalled a rupture with Washington, saying Peru had no intention of confronting the United States and remained committed to maintaining strong diplomatic and commercial ties. His comments came days after U.S. ambassador Bernie Navarro warned that Washington would act to protect its interests if Peru negotiated “in bad faith”.
The proposed deal has faced criticism at home, with opponents questioning increased defence spending while Peru grapples with shortages in health and education. Defence Minister Carlos Diaz and Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela resigned on Wednesday in protest, saying contracts signed in April should be respected and warning that suspending payments could harm Peru’s national interests and relations with the United States.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
