SAN JUAN: Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader announced Wednesday that he has authorized the US government to operate inside restricted areas in the Caribbean country to help in its fight against drug trafficking. For a limited time, the US can refuel aircraft and transport equipment and technical personnel at restricted areas within the San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport, said Abinader, who made the announcement with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at his side.