U.S. Intensifies Military Actions in Latin America Under New 'Trump Corollary' to Monroe Doctrine

In recent months, the United States has significantly increased its military presence and operations in Latin America, citing a renewed commitment to the Monroe Doctrine under what President Donald Trump refers to as the 'Trump Corollary.'

This policy shift has led to a series of military actions targeting alleged drug trafficking operations. Since September 2025, the U.S. military has conducted over 30 airstrikes on vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans, resulting in at least 107 fatalities. These strikes are part of Operation Southern Spear, aimed at dismantling transnational criminal networks.

In December, the U.S. expanded its operations to include land-based targets within Venezuela. A CIA drone strike targeted a dock facility suspected of being used by drug smugglers, marking the first known U.S. operation on Venezuelan soil since the onset of military activity in September. President Trump described the attack as a hit on a drug-loading facility.

The Trump administration has also imposed a naval blockade on oil tankers under U.S. sanctions traveling to or from Venezuela. This move aims to cripple President Nicolás Maduro's regime economically while avoiding direct military intervention.

Additionally, the U.S. has secured military agreements with several Latin American countries, including Paraguay, Ecuador, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago. These deals range from airport access to joint operations against 'narco-terrorists,' further expanding U.S. influence in the region.

Critics argue that these actions risk destabilizing the region and could lead to unintended consequences, including increased migration and strained diplomatic relations. The administration maintains that these measures are necessary to protect U.S. interests and curb the influence of foreign powers in the Western Hemisphere.