Monroe Doctrine Revival: How Trump’s Foreign Policy Targets China, Russia, and Latin America

Donald Trump has reignited interest in the Monroe Doctrine as a guiding principle for U.S. foreign policy, especially in countering foreign influence in the Western Hemisphere. This strategy highlights the growing competition between the U.S. and external powers, notably China and Russia.

A Renewed Focus on Latin America

Trump’s administration has openly embraced the Monroe Doctrine, emphasizing its relevance in today’s geopolitical climate. This policy shift aims to counter foreign powers in Latin America, with a particular focus on curbing China’s expanding influence. China’s investments in critical infrastructure, such as ports near the Panama Canal, have prompted Trump to propose stronger U.S. control over such strategic assets.

Balancing Isolationism and Interventionism

While promoting an “America First” agenda, Trump’s foreign policy combines domestic isolationism with interventionist strategies in Latin America. This duality includes threats of military action against Mexican drug cartels and interventions to limit external influence in the Americas, signaling a paradoxical approach to safeguarding U.S. interests.

Strategic Moves in the Arctic and Greenland

Beyond Latin America, Trump has shown interest in expanding U.S. influence in the Arctic, particularly Greenland. With the Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base) playing a key role in U.S. missile defense, Trump’s remarks about Greenland reflect broader geopolitical ambitions. These initiatives underline a shift toward a “continental” strategy, positioning the Americas and the northern Atlantic as core areas of influence.

Broader Global Implications

Trump’s revival of the Monroe Doctrine extends beyond the Western Hemisphere. His administration’s stance highlights ongoing tensions with Russia and China, especially concerning the Arctic and Ukraine. While some see this strategy as reinforcing U.S. dominance, others criticize it as a return to imperialistic practices that undermine the sovereignty of smaller nations.

Europe’s Vulnerability

Europe remains unprepared to navigate this emerging global order, as the continent clings to the transatlantic alliance despite waning U.S. commitment. Ironically, Trump’s ambitions pose a direct challenge to European sovereignty, further exposing the geopolitical fragility of the region.