Trump Administration Revives Monroe Doctrine to Counter China in Latin America

The Trump administration has unveiled a new National Security Strategy that reintroduces the Monroe Doctrine, a policy originally established in the 19th century to limit European influence in the Western Hemisphere. This updated strategy, referred to as the "Trump Corollary," prioritizes Latin America in U.S. foreign policy, aiming to counteract China's growing presence in the region.

The strategy emphasizes the need to deny China and other foreign powers access to strategic assets such as military installations, ports, critical minerals, and cyber communications networks in Latin America. It also links U.S. security and prosperity to maintaining dominance in the region, framing a robust military presence and diplomatic pressure as essential to confronting drug cartels and protecting infrastructure from Chinese influence.

Recent U.S. military actions align with this strategy. Since September 2025, the U.S. has conducted airstrikes on vessels in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific Ocean, targeting groups designated as narcoterrorists. These operations have resulted in at least 61 deaths from 15 vessels struck. The administration has also labeled Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro a "narco-dictator," despite Venezuela's minor role in drug trafficking to the U.S.

The strategy's focus on Venezuela is notable, given the country's vast oil reserves and strategic Caribbean coastline. Under U.S. sanctions, Venezuela has engaged in energy and mining deals with China, Iran, and Russia. The Trump administration views these partnerships as unacceptable and is reportedly seeking to reverse foreign influence in the region.

Regional responses to the U.S. strategy have been fragmented. While some leaders have called for peace, there has been no coordinated condemnation of U.S. military actions. Governments are navigating their relationships with the U.S. individually, balancing the desire for favorable treatment against the risk of being labeled as "narco-states."