US Intervention in Latin America: A Cycle of Chaos and Reckoning

Strategic Insights -

The Trump administration has been embroiling itself in a recent string of military actions against Venezuela and Colombia, killing over 60 people and raising alarm bells among regional leaders. Colombia's president, Gustavo Petro, accused the US of "perpetuating violence" and threatening the sovereignty of his country. This marks a new chapter in the long history of US intervention in Latin America, a pattern that has repeatedly yielded devastating consequences.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US has a history of meddling in Latin American affairs, dating back to the 1820s, with the Monroe Doctrine serving as a cornerstone of its expansionist policies.
  • A new "corollary" of the Monroe Doctrine appears to be shaping up under the Trump administration, characterized by open hostility, military force, and moral panic.
  • The Trump administration's actions in Venezuela and Colombia have sparked concerns that the US may be preparing for a larger military operation.
  • The legitimacy of Venezuelan President Maduro's government has been questioned, but the targeting of Colombia's democratically elected president, Gustavo Petro, raises questions about the true motives of the US.
  • Historically, US interventions in Latin America have led to chaos, instability, and unintended consequences, including the rise of authoritarian regimes.
  • The CIA has warned of the potential for "blowback" or unintended consequences from covert operations, highlighting the risks of US intervention.
  • Two notable examples of US intervention in Latin America include the Mexican Revolution and the occupation of Nicaragua, both of which resulted in devastating outcomes for the local populations.
  • The Sandinista National Liberation Front, which overthrew the US-backed government of Nicaragua, has continued to be a thorn in the side of the US.

Statistics:

  • Over 60 people have been killed in recent US military actions against Venezuela and Colombia.
  • The US has a long history of intervening in Latin America, dating back to the 1820s.
  • The Monroe Doctrine has been used as a pretext for US expansionism and intervention in the region.
  • The US has been accused of supporting coups and authoritarian regimes in Latin America.
  • The CIA has warned of the potential for "blowback" or unintended consequences from covert operations.

Sources:

  • The Conversation (2010-2022)
  • Felipe Polit, "US-Latin America intervention scenarios," (2022)
  • Tradell G. Ellis, "Investigation of war crimes in Nicaragua," (2019)
  • Marlys Leisenring and/or Peitic 2016 Conflict over Nicaragua Canal Build Explained.]