What Next | Daily News and Analysis The Trump Doctrine in Latin America
Oct 21, 2025
Brian Winter, editor-in-chief of Americas Quarterly and a seasoned expert in Latin American politics, discusses the U.S.'s aggressive military buildup near Venezuela and the ambitious $20 billion bailout for Argentina. He explains how these actions reflect Trump's strategic focus on Latin America, including countering China’s influence. Winter also addresses the potential human costs of U.S. interventions and the complex reactions from neighboring countries. The conversation offers insights into the shifting political landscape in the region and the implications for U.S. interests.
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Unusually Focused U.S. Attention On Latin America
- The Trump White House is the most focused on Latin America in at least 30 years.
- Personnel with deep regional ties signal a coordinated policy shift toward the hemisphere.
Milei’s Rise From TV Economist To President
- Javier Milei rose from TV economist and eccentric public figure to Argentina's president promising to cut spending.
- His austerity measures lowered inflation from astronomical levels but brought painful recessionary effects.
Bailout As Political Stability Tool
- The U.S. bailout of Argentina is meant to buy time and preserve political stability for an allied government.
- Personal affinity between Trump and Milei strongly shaped the unusually direct aid package.