President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. would “run” Venezuela after the overnight capture of Nicolás Maduro, signaling possible future actions against Colombia, Cuba, and Mexico.
Trump and aides framed Maduro’s ouster as a warning to other regional governments, with threats tied to drug trafficking and regime stability.
Latin American leaders condemned the raid, with Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil citing violations of sovereignty, while some nations sought to mediate tensions.
Trump cited the Monroe Doctrine as justification and emphasized U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere, drawing strong support from Florida Republicans, especially regarding potential actions against Cuba, Politico has reported.
Analysts warned that the U.S. focus on Venezuela could create instability in the region, open opportunities for China, and strain relations with neighbors while managing the complex transition in Caracas.
