After Maduro's Arrest, Trump Launches a Modified Version of the "Monroe Doctrine"

Days after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. military operation, President Donald Trump hinted that he is setting his sights on other countries, leaving the world wondering who is next. On Sunday, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump mentioned Colombia, Cuba, Greenland, Mexico, and Iran. After previously criticizing interventionist policies, Trump now asserts he is applying the "Donroe Doctrine"—a play on the 1823 "Monroe Doctrine," which declared Latin America a U.S. sphere of influence off-limits to foreign powers.

Key Targets:

• Greenland: Trump reaffirmed the need to annex the Danish island for national security. Danish PM Mette Frederiksen warned that any forced takeover could end NATO. Analysts suggest Washington might use diplomatic pressure or push for a referendum.

• Colombia: Trump warned leftist President Gustavo Petro to "be careful," suggesting military intervention might be a "good idea." Petro responded by vowing to take up arms against U.S. threats.

• Cuba & Mexico: Trump claimed Cuba is "about to fall" due to the loss of Venezuelan oil. Regarding Mexico, he urged President Sheinbaum to allow U.S. troops to fight drug cartels, an offer Mexico has consistently rejected.

• Iran: Following heavy U.S. strikes in June, Trump threatened a "very strong hit" if Tehran kills protesters during current unrest.