Guyana Hires Trump Ally Carlos Trujillo for Washington Lobbying Efforts

Guyana’s government has retained Trump ally Carlos Trujillo to lobby Washington, paying US$50,000 monthly for six months. This agreement seeks US support on Guyana’s territorial issues amid tensions with Venezuela. Trujillo’s firm will also cover additional costs, while Georgetown potentiates its diplomatic efforts regarding related sanctions.

The Government of Guyana has engaged consultant Carlos Trujillo, an ally of former President Donald Trump, to lobby on its behalf in Washington. This arrangement, reported under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act, contractually commenced on December 16, 2024, for a duration of six months, with possible renewal contingent on performance. The monthly fee for Trujillo’s services through Continental Strategy LLC will amount to US$50,000.

The agreement, signed by Elisabeth Harper, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was formalized without any public announcement from the government. Trujillo’s firm will also be reimbursed for any additional reasonable costs, such as registration fees and travel expenses, capped at US$15,000 per month without prior client approval.

Analysts underscore that the Guyanese government is eager to secure US support regarding its border dispute with Venezuela, especially after a recent naval incursion. The United States has expressed its commitment to supporting Guyana’s territorial claims, reinforcing this stance through statements from its Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs.

Trujillo previously served as U.S. Ambassador to the Organization of American States and advised Trump’s campaign on engaging the Latin voter base. His political career also includes a nomination to the role of Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, although his nomination was eventually returned to the President in January 2021.

Additionally, Georgetown aims to communicate its concerns over potential sanctions targeting officials involved in Cuban medical missions, which the US has condemned as human trafficking. Continental Strategy’s web presence emphasizes its expertise in lobbying for clients in various political, policy, and communication realms, leveraging long-established relationships with key policymakers.

The engagement of Carlos Trujillo by the Guyanese government reflects a strategic effort to strengthen ties with the United States, particularly amid ongoing regional tensions with Venezuela. The government anticipates Trujillo’s lobbying will ensure support on critical issues including territorial integrity and health diplomacy. This move underscores the significance of political alliances as Guyana navigates its foreign relations in a complex geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com