Douglas M. Fraser, retired U.S. Air Force general and former commander of the U.S. Southern Command: “Increasing demand in the United States and globally drives increased cocaine production. But criminal organizations are also increasing demand by lacing cocaine and other drugs with fentanyl. Fentanyl is now the pacing illicit drug. It is easy to produce, requires small amounts to hook new users and is now the top drug killer in the United States. Cooperation between authorities in cocaine producing and consuming countries varies by country and by government. Overall, cooperation remains positive, but programs are under-resourced across the region. Programs vary by country and jurisdiction. Most counter illicit drug efforts for both demand and supply, and they also focus on enabling local authorities and communities to take action. But few programs emphasize addressing the entire drug demand- and supply-side value chains. Instead, they address…”