Hub Podcasts Trump's Venezuela invasion: How should Canada respond?
Jan 5, 2026
Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer dive into the U.S. military's intervention in Venezuela, questioning its implications for a new world order. They discuss whether this marks a revival of the Monroe Doctrine, and the risks of similar actions spreading to other countries. The hosts explore the erosion of moral considerations in U.S. foreign policy, warning of potential conflicts arising from historical patterns of great power behavior. Sean offers strategic advice for Canada on addressing these challenges and enhancing its national security.
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Hemispheric Sphere Of Influence Reemerges
- The Trump administration's national security strategy signals a return to hemispheric spheres of influence centered on the U.S..
- This reframes recent actions (like Venezuela) as part of a broader, durable strategy rather than mere rhetoric.
Venezuela Could Be The First Move
- Invading Venezuela may presage similar interventions in Cuba, Colombia, or even Greenland if the doctrine endures.
- That suggests Canada's sovereignty and Arctic interests could become direct targets of U.S. hemispheric policy.
Moral Void Enables Global Reciprocity
- A foreign policy stripped of moral claims risks normalizing raw power politics globally.
- That erosion invites other great powers to reciprocate in their own spheres, raising the risk of conflict.