U.S. Imperialism and Its Consequences
Tragedy has been a consistent outcome of U.S. imperialism, with actions under President Donald Trump also assuming an absurd character.
Historical Context
- In 2003, the U.S. invaded Iraq under false pretenses to depose a dictator and "export" democracy, leading to destabilization, the rise of ISIS, and turmoil in West Asia.
- Similar strategies were employed in North Africa.
Venezuela Intervention
In 2026, the U.S. implemented a similar imperial script in Venezuela, under Trump’s administration.
- Actions included bombing campaigns and naval blockades, violating international law and Article 2 of the UN Charter.
- The U.S. conducted oil tanker interdictions and illegal killings of civilians under a purported anti-narcotics operation.
Motivations Behind Intervention
- Monroe Doctrine: To re-establish U.S. hegemony in the Americas against regimes like Venezuela's.
- Geopolitical Influence: To disrupt Venezuela's ties with China.
- Resource Control: To gain control over Venezuela's large crude oil reserves.
Outcomes and Hypocrisy
The U.S. claims of victory may be pyrrhic, with the United Socialist Party of Venezuela retaining strong support despite Maduro's authoritarian governance.
- The Bolivarian movement aimed to address inequality fostered by previous U.S.-backed regimes.
Trump administration's hypocrisy includes:
- Labelling Maduro as a cartel leader without evidence.
- Releasing Juan Orlando Hernández, a convicted narcotics trafficker, and supporting pro-Washington Nasry Asfura in Honduras.
Global Implications and Conclusion
The actions of the U.S. and Russia post-Cold War have undermined the hope for a stable liberal order.
- Trump's withdrawal from climate accords and tariff escalations show contempt for international norms.
- Venezuela's invasion reflects this isolationist-imperialist hybrid.
- If the international community remains silent, it endorses a world where sovereignty is at Washington's discretion.
