Story perspectives

Trump Revives Monroe Doctrine Amid Venezuela Tensions

1/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Monroe Doctrine, established in 1823, has resurfaced in U.S. foreign policy debates as U.S. President Donald Trump frames Venezuela actions as a revival to assert oil control and regional stability.
Historian Jay Sexton notes the doctrine originally aimed to prevent European interference in the Americas.
Critics including Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett warn against normalizing violence and cite consequences of U.S. military actions in Nigeria and elsewhere.

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Story summary

The Monroe Doctrine, established in 1823, has resurfaced in U.S. foreign policy debates as U.S. President Donald Trump frames Venezuela actions as a revival to assert oil control and regional stability.
Historian Jay Sexton notes the doctrine originally aimed to prevent European interference in the Americas.
Critics including Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett warn against normalizing violence and cite consequences of U.S. military actions in Nigeria and elsewhere.