Key Takeaways:

• Trump’s Donroe Doctrine seeks to control nearby nations.
• Experts predict it will weaken U.S. influence over time.
• The Venezuelan raid showed power but lacked lasting plans.
• Coercion alone can drive allies toward other global powers.

Former President Trump called his new policy toward Latin America the Donroe Doctrine. He claimed it would reshape the region. Yet The Economist warns that this bold plan will collapse. In turn, its failure could damage U.S. standing. Below, we break down why experts doubt its success.

The Donroe Doctrine in Action

On January 3, U.S. forces swooped into Caracas and captured Nicolás Maduro and his wife. They now face drug charges and possible life sentences. Trump then declared he “runs Venezuela” and demanded obedience from Vice President Delcy Rodríguez. He even hinted at stationing troops or launching more raids. However, analysts call these threats not credible.

Yet Trump left no doubt about his aim. He craves natural resources and regional control. At first glance, the raid looked like proof of concept for the Donroe Doctrine. American power appeared limitless. Media outlets saw a jaw-dropping display of U.S. force. Still, power without a plan to build ties often backfires.

Why Coercion Alone Will Fail

First, friends and neighbors resent being bullied. Smaller nations near the United States may bow at first. However, over time they will seek to reclaim their freedom. They will quietly reach out to other powers like China.

Second, strongmen and local elites will fight back. They will learn that even a superpower cannot stay everywhere at once. Moreover, they will sow doubt among U.S. partners about America’s reliability.

Third, the policy ignores values that once underpinned U.S. alliances. America built its global role on shared beliefs in democracy and rights. By sidelining those ideals, Trump stripped U.S. power of moral force. As a result, the Donroe Doctrine may repel, not attract, allies.

Lessons from History

Historically, great powers have tried to keep a whole hemisphere in line. Yet these efforts often faltered. When force stood alone, resistance followed. By contrast, when influence blended power with respect for local voices, long-term ties formed.

For example, post–World War II aid programs helped Europe rebuild. In turn, Europe grew loyal to the United States. In Latin America, similar support could boost stability. Instead, the Donroe Doctrine focuses on punishment and raids. Without programs for schools or hospitals, fear will breed hate.

Impact on U.S. Alliances

Already, some traditional partners worry. They fear being caught between U.S. demands and local backlash. In addition, they worry about trading freely with countries like China. If the Donroe Doctrine forces them to pick sides, they might choose money over friendship.

Furthermore, regional bodies like the Organization of American States may fracture. Once, they offered dialogue channels. Now, they could splinter over U.S. coercion. Divisions will weaken collective action against crime and pandemics.

Economic Costs of Isolation

Beyond politics, the Donroe Doctrine could harm trade. Latin America is a key market for U.S. exports. Yet trade ties rely on trust. If nations fear sudden U.S. raids or demands, they will diversify. They might build pipelines, ports, and trade deals with China or Europe.

Moreover, foreign investment in the region could shift. Companies seek stable rules. They will avoid countries where U.S. policy feels unpredictable. As a result, U.S. firms could lose ground to rivals.

Humanitarian Risks

Raiding a capital city sparks fear among civilians. People worry about flare-ups of violence. In Venezuela, where basic supplies run low, stability matters most. If Trump’s approach triggers more chaos, humanitarian costs will mount.

Therefore, critics argue that America should pair any security steps with aid. Food, water, and medicine build goodwill. They help governments stand on their own. Simply firing special forces does little to heal old wounds.

The Role of Values and Attraction

In his critique, The Economist stressed that universal values once drove U.S. power. Democracy and human rights offered a beacon. They made foreign partners proud, not just protected by force.

However, the Donroe Doctrine rejects that “foolish indulgence.” It views values as a distraction. Instead, it pushes “might makes right.” Yet such blunt force rarely wins hearts and minds. Without attraction, alliances crumble.

What Comes Next?

As Latin American leaders digest the raid, they face tough choices. Some will bow openly. Others will resist behind closed doors. Over time, a new map of influence will emerge. China, with its steady loans and infrastructure deals, could fill any gaps. Russia and Iran may also seek footholds. In short, the Donroe Doctrine could push old friends into new partnerships.

At home, U.S. voters and lawmakers will debate costs. Military raids cost money. They also carry political risks. If the plan falters abroad, citizens may question its worth. Policymakers will weigh hard power against softer, long-lasting tools.

A Path Forward

Experts say the United States needs a balanced approach. In addition to strong defense, it requires humanitarian aid and economic cooperation. It must champion democracy while protecting its interests. Above all, it should listen to regional concerns.

For any doctrine to succeed, it needs more than shock and awe. It must earn loyalty through shared goals. Otherwise, even the world’s largest economy will find itself alone.

FAQs

What is the Donroe Doctrine?

The Donroe Doctrine is Trump’s plan to use U.S. power to control Latin American politics.

Why do experts say it will fail?

They argue that force alone cannot build lasting ties. Leaders will resist and seek new partners.

How did the Venezuela raid fit this doctrine?

The raid showed U.S. military strength. Yet it lacked follow-up aid or rebuilding plans.

What could replace this hardline approach?

A mix of security, economic support, and respect for democracy could win lasting loyalty.