Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy

Kicking off at with opening remarks from Amb. Stephanie Syptak-Ramnath, Foreign Policy Advisor, U.S. Southern Command, alongside Brian Fonseca, Ph.D., and Randy Pestana.

The day began with an important conversation featuring Amb. Ronald “Ron” D. Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, moderated by Carlos Diaz Rosillo, Ph.D., Founding Director of the FIU Adam Smith Center, exploring diplomacy, security, and the evolving relationship between the U.S. and Mexico.

Day 2 kicked off with opening remarks from Ana Gonzalez, J2 Deputy Director, U.S. Southern Command, and Brian Fonseca, Vice Provost, Defense and National Security Research and Director, FIU Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy, setting the stage for a morning of insightful conversations surrounding regional and global security.

We then heard from Alejandra Susana Monteoliva, Minister of National Security of Argentina, in conversation with Gabriela Hoberman, Director of Academic Programs, FIU Kimberly Green Latin American and Caribbean Center, as they explored Argentina’s national security landscape, regional cooperation, and the evolving challenges shaping security across the hemisphere.

The conversation then led into a timely discussion on the growing influence of external powers in the Americas, moderated by Vera Bergengruen, National Security Correspondent, The Wall Street Journal. Featuring insights from Martin Vladimirov, Director of the Energy and Climate Program, Center for the Study of Democracy, Vladimir Rouvinski, Director of the Laboratory of Politics and International Relations (PoInt) at ICESI University, Renee Novakoff, Senior Fellow, FIU Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy, and Rafael Marrero, Founder, Miami Strategic Intelligence Institute, the panel explored geopolitical influence, strategic competition, energy security, and the role of global actors shaping the future of the Western Hemisphere. 🌎⚡

As Day 1 of Hemispheric Security Conference 2026 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on a day filled with insightful conversations, global perspectives, and meaningful connections. A powerful start to an incredible week ahead at . 🌎✨

From “Great Power Competition: Risks and Opportunities for Latin America and the Caribbean” to “Venezuela and Cuba: Future Scenarios, Risks, and Strategic Opportunities,” two powerful conversations unpacking the complexities, challenges, and strategic possibilities defining the region’s future in a rapidly evolving global order

is finally here! Get ready for an impact filled day of timely discussions starting with “Great Power Competition: Risks and Opportunities for Latin America and the Caribbean”

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