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Trump’s 'Donroe Doctrine' Spurs Controversial Military Actions

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump invoked a revised Monroe Doctrine, the "Donroe Doctrine," to justify military actions in Venezuela, including Maduro's capture.
The Donroe Doctrine emphasizes U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere and suggests possible actions in Colombia and Greenland.
Critics, including John J. Mearsheimer, argue the actions amount to imperialism and prioritize Venezuela's oil over threats from China or Russia.

History

Historical Context

In 1823, President James Monroe articulated the Monroe Doctrine, opposing European colonialism in the Americas and asserting U.S. influence. This policy laid the foundation for future interventions, notably during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). The recent invocation of the "Donroe Doctrine" by Donald Trump in 2026 reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to counteract foreign influence, particularly from China and Russia, in Latin America.

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Story summary

In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump invoked a revised Monroe Doctrine, the "Donroe Doctrine," to justify military actions in Venezuela, including Maduro's capture.
The Donroe Doctrine emphasizes U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere and suggests possible actions in Colombia and Greenland.
Critics, including John J. Mearsheimer, argue the actions amount to imperialism and prioritize Venezuela's oil over threats from China or Russia.

1 / 2