The Current After Venezuela, how far will Trump go?
Jan 6, 2026
Janice Stein, founding director of the Munk School, and Jorge Heine, former Chilean ambassador, offer intriguing insights into U.S. actions in Venezuela. Stein critiques the revival of the Monroe Doctrine and warns about the undermining of Latin American sovereignty, while Heine highlights mixed regional reactions. They discuss the implications of limited military interventions and the vulnerability of other democracies like Colombia and Mexico. Both experts advocate for a non-aligned approach for Latin America to navigate this new geopolitical landscape.
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U.S. Actions Echo A Modern Monroe Doctrine
- Janice Stein frames the U.S. action as a modern Monroe (or "Donro") Doctrine asserting Western Hemisphere dominance.
- She warns this posture undermines sovereignty and encourages great powers to shape neighbours' fates.
Trump Uses Targeted Low‑Risk Military Actions
- Janice Stein highlights Trump's selective use of force: he acts when officials assure low casualty risk.
- She contrasts surgical, low-risk raids with past large-scale interventions like Iraq.
Venezuela Oil Blockade Risks Crippling Cuba
- Janice Stein explains a Venezuelan oil blockade could cripple Cuba since Venezuela supplies most of Cuba's oil.
- She suggests Marco Rubio and allies may intend to economically force regime change by cutting key energy lifelines.
