US Sanctions Three Chilean Officials, Deepening Tensions with Boric Government

The Trump administration imposed sanctions on three Chilean officials accused of activities against US interests.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Trump administration has imposed sanctions on three Chilean officials, accusing them of participating in activities that went against US interests. The move is seen as deepening tensions between the US and the government of Chilean President Gabriel Boric.

Why it matters

The sanctions reflect ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and Chile under the Boric administration, which has taken a more progressive stance on issues like human rights and climate change compared to previous Chilean governments.

The details

The three Chilean officials sanctioned by the US are accused of involvement in activities that undermined democratic processes and human rights in Chile. The sanctions freeze any US-based assets the officials may have and prohibit American individuals and entities from doing business with them.

  • The sanctions were imposed on February 20, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who imposed the sanctions on the Chilean officials.

Gabriel Boric

The current president of Chile, whose government has faced increased tensions with the US under the Trump administration.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold accountable those who undermine democratic processes and human rights.”

— A US State Department spokesperson

What’s next

The sanctions are likely to further strain relations between the US and Chile, and it remains to be seen how the Boric government will respond.

The takeaway

The imposition of US sanctions on Chilean officials highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two countries, reflecting the divergent policy approaches of the Trump and Boric administrations.