Noriega’s Payments: CIA and US Army Acknowledgment

Revelations of Payments to Manuel Noriega

In a stunning admission in 1991, the United States government revealed that it had made payments totaling $320,000 to Manuel Noriega, the infamous Panamanian dictator, over the course of his career. This revelation highlighted the complex and often controversial relationship between the US and Noriega, which had been built on mutual interests during the Cold War. The acknowledgment raised eyebrows, prompting questions about the ethical and strategic implications of such a partnership.

The Background of Manuel Noriega

Born in Panama in 1934, Manuel Noriega rose through the ranks of the Panamanian military and eventually became the de facto leader of the country. For decades, he was a vital ally to the US, providing intelligence assistance in Central America and the Caribbean. His strategic importance was particularly pronounced during the 1980s when the US was fighting the growing influence of communism in the region.

The Payments and Their Purpose

The payments made by the CIA and the US Army were reportedly intended to support Noriega's anti-communist activities and maintain stability in Panama. However, this covert financial support took a dark turn as Noriega's regime increasingly engaged in drug trafficking and human rights violations. The acknowledgment of these payments illustrates the often blurry lines of international relations, politics, and morality.

The Impact of the Admission

The US admission regarding the payments to Noriega had wide-ranging implications for US foreign policy. It called into question the intelligence practices of the US government and strained relations with Latin American countries that had suffered under Noriega's brutal rule.

International Repercussions of Supporting Noriega

When the US revealed its financial support for Noriega, it faced backlash from many countries and human rights organizations that condemned the dictator's brutal tactics. The consequences of the US support echoed through the region, with many arguing that American backing contributed to the instability and violence that plagued Panama.

The Legacy of Noriega's Collaboration with the US

The legacy of Noriega’s collaboration with the US is a reminder of how foreign alliances can backfire. After the US invaded Panama in 1989 to oust Noriega, the relationship soured, resulting in over a decade of legal battles for the former dictator, who was eventually convicted on drug trafficking charges in the US.

Fun Fact

Noriega’s Unexpected Role in Pop Culture

Despite his notorious reputation, Manuel Noriega made an unexpected appearance in pop culture. He was featured as a character in the video game Call of Duty: Black Ops II, illustrating how global figures can transcend their historical actions into entertainment.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Manuel Noriega

For those interested in learning more about Manuel Noriega and the implications of US foreign policy, consider reading "Noriega: God's Bankers" by G. M. P. Van Doren or "The Panama Papers" by J. O. Henning. These materials provide deeper insight into Noriega's life and the turbulent history of US intervention in Panama.