From Monroe to Donroe: How the USA is Changing International Politics

Over the past few months, the fate of America has taken a turn. Every day, a new story appears of Trump’s plans to take over countries, whilst forcefully deporting those in his own. It’s impossible to confine all the events surrounding the USA in one article, nor would it convey the true gravity of the situation at hand. So, for now, I’ll focus on the big picture – how the USA is impacting international politics.  

Trump’s intention to take control over various nations is no secret, and I don't think he particularly wants it to be. From the capture of Venezuela's Maduro to pushing for a sale of Greenland, the increasingly polarising president is clearly on a mission to expand his influence. But I pose the question, is he simply power hungry, or does Trump truly believe in a new world order?  

Earlier this month, a moment of intrigue, fear, and confusion occurred – the US infiltration of Venezuela. An operation of this scale was nothing short of a declaration. Trump wants the world to know of his power, and that he is not afraid to use it. Maduro has been the President of Venezuela since 2013. Alongside accusations regarding his use of violence to silence opposition, Maduro's legitimacy as a leader since the 2024 elections has been globally refuted, with Starmer stating, “we regarded Maduro as an illegitimate President.” 

In December, after months of monitoring Maduro’s movements, a plan was finalised: Operation Absolute Resolve. This capture was not a moment of spontaneity. A spy was deployed in the Venezuelan government, multiple rehearsals took place, and they even built a full-size replica of Maduro’s home. The night of the capture, more than 150 American aircrafts were deployed. Power was cut and military targets were hit.  

Trump watched comfortably from his Floridian estate, far from Congress, which knew nothing of the plan at hand. When speaking of the event, Trump undoubtedly had pride in his voice: “the speed, the violence...it was an amazing thing”. He compared the stream of the operation to watching a TV show, meanwhile Venezuelan citizens, regardless of their opinions on Maduro, remained scared and confused as smoke blanketed the skies and alarms blared in the distance.  

Maduro and his wife were swiftly taken to a New York Court where they were charged as accomplices to cocaine-trafficking in partnership with terrorist groups. Other government officials, as well as their son, were also charged.  

Maduro adversely accused Trump of using this to gain access to Venezuelan oil reserves. Since the capture, the US has seized 5 oil tanks, with promises to disperse profits in a way that benefits the Venezuelan people. Trump has declared that 50 million barrels will be turned over to the US.  

However uncertain the future may seem, it appears the cards are in Trump’s hand. Warnings have been sent to various countries, leaving leaders fearful of America’s next move. Venezuela's new leader, Delcy Rodriguez, has been warned of a similar fate if she “doesn't do what's right” (the ‘right’ thing, of course, being whatever Trump demands). Brazil's president labelled this event as a “dangerous precedent” for international relations. Shots were further fired at Colombia, which Trump explicitly called “sick” and led by a man who “likes making cocaine”, threatening his power coming to a similar end soon.  

As I sat trying to consume all this information, my immediate thought questioned who gave Trump the right to decide all of this? After all, he isn't particularly the most adored nor legitimate leader himself. Maduro’s capture may have grasped the news’ attention, but we’re still waiting on the Epstein files (at least readable ones). As it appears, Trump's reasoning behind this, however misconstrued, dates back to the 1800s. The Monroe Doctrine, which Trump very humbly renamed the ‘Donroe Doctrine’, declared the Western hemisphere as America’s interest. Trump has always been an inventive, and consequentially unpredictable, leader. Questions of legitimacy have never appeared to concern him (ironic, given he captured Maduro as an illegitimate leader). Yet, as the rest of the world tries to move forward, it seems Trump is trying to revive history.  

Shortly after capturing Maduro, sights were set on Greenland. Greenland is a vast expanse of land owned by Denmark. It is rich in minerals and perfectly situated for conflict surveillance. Trump and Vice President Vance have stressed that Greenland's location would be perfect for monitoring potential missile attacks from Russia and China. Despite this persistence, it has been made abundantly clear that Greenland is not for sale. Trump has not backed down. The US already have military personnel stationed in Greenland and have done so since the Second World War, but Trump’s intention to take over entirely remains clear.  

Both Denmark and the US are members of NATO, therefore a violent or uncivil takeover would undoubtedly complicate world peace. This problem has united large European members, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, who all recognise and support Denmark’s ownership. Following the World Economic Forum at Davos, it appears talks have been made between the respective leaders, however, the outcome remains unclear. Trump announced via Truth Social that meetings were productive and a future deal may be underway with the help of NATO. Conversely, Denmark remains steadfast in their view - their sovereignty is not for sale. So, while positions are not clear, it appears neither country is budging. But, as time has shown, Trump is not one to take no for an answer.  

This seems to be only the beginning of Trump’s plans. With Venezuela well underway and Greenland in close sights, the rest of the world is growing fearful of the President’s thirst for control. With mentions of Colombia, Mexico, and Cuba, Trump is beginning to sink his claws across the globe. Despite many inconsistencies across his presidency, he has always been clear on one belief – he can make America great again. The fear now stands that this mission may involve a lot more than just the United States. The President's unwavering belief in power should not be treated lightly, and this article only covers the surface. Is Trump building an empire? How far will he go to achieve his aims? Most importantly, where does it end?  

Words by Chloe Wu, she/her