The New Era of American Foreign Policy: A Troubling Turn
As the world entered 2026, peace was an unlikely prospect, and within days, our worst fears materialized. The overnight strikes on Venezuela, culminating in the abduction of its leader, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, have not only shattered international law but also exposed a deeper, more worrying trend.
Donald Trump, with his bulldozing approach since taking office, has left little of the fragile international order standing. The events in Venezuela were preceded by airstrikes on Central American waters and the seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers, all based on unproven allegations. The capture of Maduro has left many questions, including the number of lives lost.
The most alarming aspect? The success of Maduro's rendition. Trump's belief in his global dominance and his appetite for foreign territories and resources were previously restrained by his fear of foreign entanglements. However, this fear seems to be waning, and the dramatic operation has left him thrilled.
"A brilliant operation," Trump exclaimed, praising the American troops. The attack on Venezuela, initially planned for Christmas, indicates a shift in priorities, with foreign lands and resources taking precedence over peace prizes.
The Trump administration has attempted to justify the attack, claiming Maduro's 'bringing to justice.' Maduro, an authoritarian leader, has faced corruption and drug trafficking charges in the US. However, experts argue that the drug allegations are weak and do not provide a convincing legal basis for the attack.
Trump's actions echo past US administrations, which have gradually loosened international laws. The operation resembles the 1990 Panama invasion, where the Bush administration forced the surrender of its strongman. This was followed by the younger Bush's invasion of Iraq and Obama's drone assassination campaign.
These acts of hypocrisy, justified by US interests, have led to a complete disdain for the rules-based system. Trump views the world through an imperialist lens, armed with modern weapons.
The future of Venezuela remains uncertain, with a peaceful resolution appearing unlikely. Governments like Iran and Denmark, facing similar threats from Trump, are now on high alert. Trump's recent statements about defending Iranian protesters and his threats towards Greenland showcase his willingness to take radical action.
The events in Venezuela accelerate the world towards a new era of competing spheres of influence, where might makes right. As one commentator put it, this is the 'Putinization' of US foreign policy. A perilous path that, if left unchecked, will impact us all.
