Story perspectives

U.S. Revives Controversial Sphere-of-Influence in Latin America

12/20/2025

46 8

Summary

Story summary

The United States is reintroducing a sphere-of-influence doctrine in Latin America, reviving a policy from 1800s.
The policy coincides with increased United States maritime operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
Uruguay’s Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin warns that the policy could violate laws and increase regional instability.
Lubetkin discusses the United States approach, the Venezuela situation, migration pressures, and China’s expanding influence.
He questions whether diplomacy can avert further escalation.

1 of 1

Story summary

The United States is reintroducing a sphere-of-influence doctrine in Latin America, reviving a policy from 1800s.
The policy coincides with increased United States maritime operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
Uruguay’s Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin warns that the policy could violate laws and increase regional instability.
Lubetkin discusses the United States approach, the Venezuela situation, migration pressures, and China’s expanding influence.
He questions whether diplomacy can avert further escalation.