Bowen: Trump’s Actions Could Set Precedent for Authoritarian Powers Across the Globe
Jeremy Bowen, International Editor
Trump’s Actions in Venezuela Signal Global Turbulence
Donald Trump’s recent actions in Venezuela may herald an era of increased volatility worldwide. By removing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, Trump has demonstrated a resolute belief in wielding American military power to achieve his objectives. The US government, under his command, has arrested Maduro, signaling that it intends to exert control over the nation.
– An Unprecedented Declaration: At a press conference held at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump proclaimed that the US would oversee Venezuela until such time as we can do a safe, proper, and judicious transition.
– Engagement with Maduro’s Regime: Trump revealed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had engaged with Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, who reportedly expressed willingness to cooperate. “We’ll do whatever you need…” Rodríguez responded, emphasizing that her options were limited.
However, details on this operation remained scant. Trump indicated a readiness for military involvement: “We’re not afraid of boots on the ground if we have to have them.” This raises questions about his strategy: Can he truly govern Venezuela remotely? Will military might be enough to reshape Venezuela and coerce Latin American leaders into compliance?
The prospects seem bleak. A respected think tank, the International Crisis Group, warned months ago that Maduro’s ousting could plunge Venezuela into violence and instability. The New York Times reported detailed simulations by Trump’s team revealing a high risk of chaos among armed factions competing for power following Maduro’s departure.
– Demonstration of Military Power: The US successfully conducted a sweeping military operation to apprehend Maduro without casualties among American forces, marking a significant display of military prowess.
Implications for the Region
Trump’s plan is deeply rooted in a desire for Venezuela’s rich oil reserves. Many citizens may welcome Maduro’s removal, yet the ramifications of US intervention extend far beyond Venezuela’s borders.
– Victory Celebrated at Mar-a-Lago: Trump’s team celebrated their success as a textbook operation. But the challenges ahead are notorious. History has shown America’s track record of regime change—from Iraq’s devastating aftermath in 2003 to the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Neither nation was in America’s immediate vicinity, raising alarms about potential interventions in Latin America.
– The Implicit Threat: During his address, Trump introduced a new moniker for the Monroe Doctrine, asserting that “American dominance in the Western hemisphere will never be questioned again.” He even cautioned the President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, to “watch his ass.” Furthermore, Trump’s comments about needing to address Mexico and Cuba highlight a broad agenda driven by his administration.
Reflections on America’s Intervention Practices
Historically, the US has intervened militarily in Latin America with mixed outcomes. As someone who witnessed the 1994 intervention in Haiti—where President Bill Clinton dispatched troops to enforce regime change—I know such actions rarely lead to sustainable improvements. Decades later, Haiti remains a haven for armed gangs and turmoil.
While Trump expresses optimism about improving Venezuela’s state, he notably dismissed the leadership of María Corina Machado, a widely respected opposition figure.
– Current Usurping of Power: In a surprising turn, the US is currently supporting Maduro’s Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, indicating that complex internal alliances may have played a role in the operation’s success. The Venezuelan military and other entrenched interests could resist American interference, prioritizing their gains from corruption.
Consequences for Global Order
Trump’s actions represent a significant challenge to the established norms of international law. His approach of sidelining rules he disagrees with could indeed set a troubling precedent.
– China’s Response: Following these developments, China criticized the US for its actions, claiming they undermined the sovereignty of Venezuela and threatened regional peace. They are likely watching closely, as oppression of Taiwan might be justified using similar rhetoric.
Indeed, this bold move raises concerns among US lawmakers, including Senator Mark Warner, who noted that if the US can justify military force against alleged criminals, similar claims could be made by authoritarian regimes worldwide.
A Future of Global Turbulence?
As Trump continues to define his legacy through these assertive actions, the world is left questioning the implications for global governance and stability. Whether his administration can navigate these treacherous waters remains uncertain. If the parameters of global order shift under the weight of these interventions, authoritarian regimes might leverage this precedent to enforce their own control, recalibrating the balance of power on an international scale.
– Next Steps for Venezuela: In the wake of Maduro’s arrest, Venezuelans find themselves in a precarious situation, filled with both hope and concern about what lies ahead under new US influence.
The question remains: Who will hold the reins in Venezuela, and what does this mean for the global order in the coming months?