Trump celebrates success in Venezuela with his so-called “Donroe Doctrine,” but the move carries risks for Kyiv, as Moscow hints at a possible cynical “Venezuela for Ukraine” exchange.
The overthrow of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela with U.S. involvement may represent only the first step in a large-scale redistribution of global spheres of influence. Analysts note that actions by the U.S. leadership, particularly President Donald Trump, could lead to major political agreements with Russia and China, where the price of U.S. dominance in Latin America could be the security and future of Ukraine, the Financial Times reports. This was also highlighted by the publication Komentari, according to the PromPolitInform portal.
Commenting on Maduro’s removal, Trump stated that his administration had not merely revived the principles of the Monroe Doctrine but had significantly surpassed them, dubbing his approach the “Donroe Doctrine.”
The statement came just hours after U.S. forces secured a change of power in Venezuela. The developments illustrate Washington’s determination to consolidate control in the Western Hemisphere. A national security strategy released last month had already outlined such actions. The speed and success of the operation reportedly reinforced the president’s confidence in pursuing further interventions in a region he considers America’s “backyard.”
At the same time, the change of power in Venezuela carries global implications. The proclamation of the “Donroe Doctrine” and signals from Trump about potential rapprochement with Moscow and Beijing suggest the U.S. administration may favor a world order built on a clear division of spheres of influence among major powers.
Moscow and Beijing reacted sharply to Maduro’s removal, yet analysts believe China might accept a loss of influence in Venezuela in exchange for greater freedom of action regarding Taiwan. Russia, in turn, could consider a similar arrangement concerning Ukraine.
Back in 2019, Fiona Hill, a former Trump administration expert, testified before Congress that the Kremlin had already hinted at a potential “Venezuela in exchange for Ukraine” deal.
