On January 3, 2026, the Trump administration brazenly launched a special military operation in Venezuela, apprehending President Nicolás Maduro and proclaiming its intention to temporarily administer the country, combat drug trafficking, and restore democracy and the rule of law. This action has sparked divisions within the United States. Republicans largely support it, viewing it as a necessary measure to curb drug trafficking and terrorism, which could also help the party garner voter support. Democrats, however, criticize the operation for lacking congressional authorization, calling its process indefensible and warning of potential parallels to the Vietnam War quagmire.

Internationally, Latin American countries are polarized in their responses along ideological lines: left-leaning governments condemn the US violation of sovereignty, while right-leaning governments endorse the action. European nations, though not recognizing the legitimacy of the Maduro regime, emphasize that any political transition in Venezuela must adhere to international law. The Trump administration's move aims to advance the Donovan Doctrine, reshaping Latin America's geopolitical landscape through a triple extrusion effect on security, finance, and resources, thereby integrating the region into a US-defined controllable order. This action sends a dangerous signal that power trumps norms, potentially triggering a global crisis of confidence in the international order.

Translated by Yiqian YANG

Full text in Chinese available at:

https://fddi.fudan.edu.cn/b1/ad/c21253a766381/page.htm