Talking Geopolitics US Forces Off the Coast of Venezuela: What's Really Going On?
Oct 23, 2025
George Friedman, founder of Geopolitical Futures and a renowned geopolitical analyst, joins to discuss the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela. He explores the implications of the Monroe Doctrine and why it remains relevant today. Friedman highlights the threats posed by cartels and Russian influence in the region, emphasizing how geography and sea power shape U.S. security. The conversation also touches on potential U.S. military actions and the psychological dynamic reminiscent of Cold War strategies.
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Monroe Doctrine As Enduring Strategy
- The Monroe Doctrine expresses a persistent U.S. strategic imperative to keep major foreign powers out of the Western Hemisphere.
- As U.S. power grew, the doctrine shifted from aspiration to actionable policy against outside military involvement.
Proximity Shapes U.S. Security Views
- Latin America is geopolitically vital because it's much closer to the U.S. homeland than Eurasia.
- The U.S. therefore views foreign military presence in the Western Hemisphere as a direct national-security threat.
Venezuela: Cartels, Oil, And Russian Ties
- Venezuela mixes oil wealth, leftist politics, and criminal networks, producing both ideological and narco-security concerns for the U.S.
- Washington sees Maduro as linked to both cartels and Russian influence, making regime change a U.S. goal.