Trump Administration’s Venezuela Strategy: A Strong Defense of U.S. Military Action

White House advisor Stephen Miller defended the U.S. military’s activities in Venezuela in a recent interview, highlighting America’s global powerhouse status. Miller told CNN that the Trump administration believes the US has the right and duty to impose its influence in national security regions.

Miller suggested that the U.S. must prohibit neighboring states from supplying resources to enemies. “It is absurd that we would allow a nation in our backyard to supply resources to our adversaries while denying our own interests,” Miller said. He invoked the Monroe Doctrine and the “Trump Doctrine” to protect U.S. interests.

Jake Tapper of CNN questioned Miller on national sovereignty and the right of nations to make their own judgments. Miller noted the consequences for global stability and the US’s responsibility in sustaining it. He highlighted that the U.S. must act firmly to stop illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and the spread of hostile regime weapons.

Venezuelan politics were also discussed. Following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, former vice president Delcy Rodríguez took over as Venezuelan government leader. The 2024 election, which many believed was won by opposition leader Edmundo González, remains a political flashpoint. Rodriguez denounced Maduro’s capture as a crime and criticized U.S. efforts to control Venezuela’s resources.

Miller believed the US should emphasize security over diplomacy. He justified the intervention as necessary to prevent Venezuela from threatening America and its friends. The survival of the free world hinges on America asserting its interests without apology,” Miller said, citing Western nations’ post-World War II apologies and concessions.

Miller and Tapper’s exchange showed the conflict between U.S. strategic goals and national sovereignty. Miller emphasized protecting U.S. interests and combating adversarial nations while raising issues about Venezuelan elections and governance.

The argument highlights the US’s ongoing struggle to balance forceful foreign policy with international norms and diplomacy. Miller stated that the Trump administration prioritizes security and geopolitical influence in Latin America with a more muscular approach.

Sources:

• U.S. Department of State
• Official statements from the White House