The New Monroe Doctrine: How a U.S. Power Grab in Venezuela Signals a Dangerous Shift in Global Order
The world is bracing for a new era of geopolitical risk. The audacious U.S. military operation that saw the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro wasn’t just a violation of international law – it was a stark demonstration of a willingness to disregard established norms, and a chilling preview of how the U.S. might act on the world stage. This isn’t simply about Venezuela; it’s about a fundamental reshaping of the international order, and the implications for Canada and its allies are profound.
A Return to 19th-Century Power Politics
The capture of Maduro, justified by the Trump administration under the revived banner of the Monroe Doctrine, signals a disturbing return to a world where “might makes right.” Originally intended to prevent European colonization in the Americas, the doctrine has been repeatedly invoked to justify U.S. intervention in the region. But as University of Guelph political science professor Jordi Diez points out, this isn’t about protecting the hemisphere; it’s about asserting dominance. The invocation of the ‘Donroe doctrine’ – a playful but telling rebranding – underscores a personalized and aggressive foreign policy approach.
This isn’t happening in a vacuum. The cautious responses from key allies – Canada, the UK, and France – aren’t necessarily endorsements of the action, but rather a calculated attempt to avoid antagonizing a volatile administration currently engaged in critical trade negotiations. As Diez explains, “If you say the wrong thing, there’s going to be pushback.” This dynamic highlights a dangerous new reality: international law is increasingly secondary to U.S. domestic political considerations.
Beyond Venezuela: A Looming Threat to Global Stability
The implications extend far beyond Venezuela’s borders. Experts warn that this unilateral action sets a “dangerous precedent,” as stated by a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The lack of strong condemnation from major powers emboldens the U.S. to potentially pursue similar interventions elsewhere. University of Toronto history professor Luis van Isschot believes Cuba is particularly vulnerable, given its history with U.S. intervention attempts. The justification of combating narco-terrorism, as used in the Venezuela case, could easily be applied to other nations.
The situation is further complicated by the administration’s broader foreign policy agenda. The willingness to disregard international norms, exemplified by the tepid response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, suggests a willingness to redraw global boundaries and challenge existing alliances. This isn’t simply about territorial expansion; it’s about a fundamental reordering of the international system.
What This Means for Canada
For Canada, the situation is particularly concerning. Arif Z. Lalani, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, argues that the Trump administration’s actions represent an “existential threat” to Canada’s economic and security relationship with the U.S. The administration’s unpredictability and willingness to repudiate agreements – from NAFTA to climate accords – create a climate of uncertainty and instability.
Beyond the economic risks, Canada faces a potential challenge to its sovereignty. Trump’s recent threats to annex Greenland, however outlandish, demonstrate a willingness to consider actions that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago. The invocation of the Monroe Doctrine, coupled with accusations against Canada regarding fentanyl trafficking (despite data showing minimal amounts crossing the border), suggests a growing disregard for Canadian interests.
Navigating a New Era of Uncertainty
So, what can be done? Experts suggest Canada must proactively build alliances with nations facing similar threats from the U.S. A coordinated response, based on a shared commitment to international law and multilateralism, is crucial. This requires a shift in diplomatic strategy, moving beyond traditional reliance on U.S. leadership and forging new partnerships with countries in Europe, Latin America, and Asia.
The capture of Maduro isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a symptom of a deeper, more troubling trend. The world is entering a period of increased geopolitical risk, characterized by unilateralism, disregard for international law, and a willingness to challenge the established order. Canada must adapt to this new reality, strengthen its alliances, and defend its interests in a world where the rules of the game are rapidly changing. The Council on Foreign Relations provides a detailed history of the Monroe Doctrine and its evolving interpretations.
What are your predictions for the future of U.S. foreign policy and its impact on global stability? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
