At Issue Could ‘America First’ mean Canada’s next? Analysis from CBC Washington
Jan 17, 2026
The podcast delves into America's aggressive foreign policy under Trump, questioning if 'America First' signals a shift toward imperialism. Reporters explore the U.S.'s military operation in Venezuela and its implications for Canada. Mixed local reactions to Maduro's removal highlight the complexities of intervention. The hosts urge Canada to diversify its global ties and caution against overreliance on the U.S. The conversation touches on the strategic importance of Greenland and the impact of U.S. moves on Canadian industries.
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U.S. Shift Toward Hemispheric Dominance
- The Venezuela raid signals a shift toward a more interventionist U.S. posture in the Western Hemisphere.
- That operation raises questions about whether the administration is pursuing a modernized Monroe Doctrine focused on hemispheric dominance.
Oil Drives Strategic Calculations
- The public rationale for action mixed narcotics, security ties to rivals, and illegitimacy but oil appears central.
- Control of Venezuela's reserves and refining capacity emerged as a clear motivating factor.
Border Reporting Reveals Mixed Reactions
- Paul Hunter reported from the Colombia–Venezuela border and described mixed reactions among Venezuelans crossing into Colombia.
- He heard gratitude that Maduro was gone but skepticism about who benefits and concerns about oil control and instability.