Make Me Smart Venezuela and Trump's new Monroe Doctrine
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Jan 8, 2026 Jason Marczak, the vice president and senior director at the Atlantic Council's Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center, dives into the implications of the U.S. military action in Venezuela and the capture of Nicolás Maduro. He discusses Trump's renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere and the Monroe Doctrine's relevance. Jason highlights the challenges facing Venezuela's economy, including hyperinflation and debt resolution. The conversation also touches on China's influence in the region and how the U.S. can strategically respond without heavy military presence.
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Western Hemisphere Recentered In Strategy
- The Trump administration's new national security strategy centers the Western Hemisphere as a priority and links regional stability to U.S. national security.
- It emphasizes expanding partners, counter-narcotics, reducing foreign adversary influence, and accelerating U.S. investment in the region.
China's Economic Inroads Challenge US Influence
- China is now the primary trading partner for almost every South American country and has poured in massive investment over the past decade.
- The U.S. strategy aims to counter that by mobilizing financing and consolidating development agencies to boost American investment.
Firsthand View Of China's Regional Presence
- Jason Marczak recounts frequent regional visits and direct observation of proliferating Chinese investment.
- He contrasts that with U.S. engagement that often returns only photos, not funding.