Trump justifies actions with ‘Donroe Doctrine’: What is the policy vision behind it? | DW News

US Intervention in Latin America & Shifting Global Power Dynamics

Key Concepts:

• Monroe Doctrine: A US foreign policy principle opposing European colonialism in the Americas. Originally intended as protection for newly independent nations, it evolved into justification for US intervention in Latin American affairs.
• "Donroe Doctrine": President Trump’s asserted revision of the Monroe Doctrine, characterized by a more aggressive assertion of US dominance in the Western Hemisphere.
• Sovereignty: The principle of a nation-state’s right to govern itself without external interference.
• Strategic Autonomy: The ability of a nation to pursue its own interests and policies independently of other powers.
• Hegemony: Dominance of one country or group over others.
• UN Charter: The foundational treaty of the United Nations, outlining principles of international law and prohibiting the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

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US Military Intervention in Venezuela & the Erosion of International Norms

The broadcast begins with the recent US military operation in Venezuela, where President Nicolás Maduro was “seized” in Caracas by US forces. Maduro, despite widely contested legitimacy, declared himself kidnapped but still the President of Venezuela. This action marks the first instance of the US using overt military force to attempt to topple a South American head of state, a significant escalation in US policy towards the region.

The intervention has drawn criticism from both US allies and adversaries, with the UN Human Rights Office condemning it as a violation of Venezuelan sovereignty and the UN Charter, arguing it undermines international security. A representative stated, “No amount of deception or distraction can alter these facts.”

Historical Context: The Monroe Doctrine & its Evolution

Political scientist Oliver Stunker contextualizes the current situation within the historical framework of the Monroe Doctrine (1823). Initially designed to prevent European re-colonization of the Americas, the doctrine was later used, particularly during the Theodore Roosevelt era, to justify US intervention in Latin American affairs, establishing a perceived “sphere of influence.” Stunker notes that Latin America now views the doctrine not as protective, but as a formalization of US dominance.

President Trump’s “Donroe Doctrine” is described as lacking a coherent justification. Initial explanations centered on drug trafficking (dismissed as Venezuela being primarily a transit country, not a producer of cocaine or fentanyl), then shifted to promoting democracy (contradicted by the US’s relationships with other authoritarian regimes in the region), and finally, potentially, removing an ally of Russia and China. This shifting rationale fuels apprehension among Latin American leaders about the potential for further US intervention.

Regional Implications & Perverse Incentives

Stunker highlights the complex dynamics within Latin America. While a stabilized Venezuela could benefit the region by addressing issues like organized crime, deforestation, and migration, the manner of stabilization – through US military force – creates a “perverse incentive” for Latin American countries to prevent Venezuela’s positive development. This is because a successful US intervention could embolden Trump to target other leaders, such as Colombia’s Gustavo Petro.

Cuba is identified as the country most immediately affected, as it is heavily reliant on Venezuelan oil, a supply now potentially controlled by the US. This could lead to further destabilization in Cuba and potential US involvement.

The Greenland Situation & US Assertiveness

The broadcast also addresses President Trump’s expressed interest in annexing Greenland, citing national security concerns related to Russian and Chinese presence. Stunker argues that this claim of Russian and Chinese influence is inaccurate, noting the existing US military base in Greenland and Denmark’s willingness to cooperate on resource exploitation. He suggests Trump’s motivation is largely about legacy – wanting to be remembered as the president who annexed Greenland.

Europe’s ability to resist such a move is limited due to its defense dependency on the US and the potential consequences of NATO’s collapse. While European leaders have expressed concern, their options are constrained.

Global Power Dynamics & the Normalization of Intervention

The discussion extends to the broader implications for global power dynamics, particularly concerning Russia and China. Stunker argues that the US actions, even in rhetoric, “normalizes a new logic in international affairs” – a return to “might makes right” where international rules are frequently violated. This could embolden Russia and China to pursue their own interests more aggressively, making it harder for the US to criticize their actions.

China’s Growing Influence in Latin America

Regarding China’s role, Stunker suggests that the US intervention in Venezuela may inadvertently strengthen China’s position in Latin America. He explains that China’s economic relationship with Latin America, particularly Brazil, is driven by economic complementarity and demand for commodities, making it difficult to disrupt. Other Latin American countries may seek to diversify their ties with China to reduce their vulnerability to the US, further increasing Beijing’s influence.

Notable Quote:

• “This is the first time that the United States is using overtly military force to topple a South American head of state. That has actually never happened before.” – Oliver Stunker, regarding the Venezuela intervention.
• “No amount of deception or distraction can alter these facts.” – UN Human Rights Office representative, condemning the US intervention.

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Conclusion:

The US intervention in Venezuela represents a significant shift in US foreign policy, characterized by a more assertive and unilateral approach. This action, coupled with the rhetoric surrounding Greenland, signals a potential renewal of American hegemony in the Western Hemisphere. However, this strategy carries significant risks, including undermining international norms, creating instability in Latin America, and potentially strengthening the position of US rivals like China and Russia. The situation highlights the complex interplay of geopolitical interests and the erosion of the post-World War II international order.