Kathmandu— The United States has abandoned diplomatic pretense and openly asserted its dominance over the Western Hemisphere, framing the Monroe Doctrine not as a defense of regional independence but as an instrument of US power. A recent video released by the State Department traces the doctrine’s history – from James Monroe’s 1823 message to Congress through Cold War interventions and culminating in the recent seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro – presenting Donald Trump as its latest champion. This shift has sparked alarm among Latin American leaders, who fear a return to aggressive US interventionism and a disregard for national sovereignty.

Historical Roots of US Influence

The Monroe Doctrine, initially presented in 1823, was historically framed as a warning against European recolonization of the Americas. However, its interpretation evolved over time, becoming increasingly associated with US hegemony. While early figures like Henry M. Brackenridge expressed both pride in the “destinies of this new world” and acknowledged potential rivalry with nations like Brazil, subsequent administrations utilized the doctrine to justify interventions throughout the region. Theodore Roosevelt’s 1904 corollary famously converted the warning against Europe into a license for US policing of its neighbors, leading to occupations and support for dictatorships.

Brazil Voices Concerns Over Sovereignty

Celso Amorim, chief foreign policy advisor to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has been vocal in his criticism of the State Department’s video. He told Brazil’s Congress that the declaration of hemispheric dominance calls into question the sovereignty of every country in Latin America, noting that even a lack of specific targeting does not diminish its broad implications. Amorim also warned that Washington's recent designation of Brazilian criminal factions as terrorist organizations should be viewed within this context, suggesting it could justify future military operations.

‘Trump Corollary’ and Expanding Intervention

The Trump administration has further solidified this assertive stance with the announcement of a “Trump Corollary” to the Monroe Doctrine in its National Security Strategy last November. This corollary aims to deny any foothold for non-hemispheric competitors, particularly China, in the Americas, treating the region's strategic assets as matters of American security. The abduction of Nicolás Maduro from Caracas earlier this year, dubbed Operation Absolute Resolve, and an expanding sanctions regime against Cuba exemplify this approach. According to Representative Delia Ramirez, whose parents fled Guatemala during US-backed violence, this represents a continuation of policies that have brought “instability, deep poverty, extreme migration, and colonialism” to the region.

Regional Response and Defense Preparations

Brazil, despite its historically cooperative relationship with the United States, is increasingly concerned about the implications of Washington’s assertive policy. With bilateral relations at a low point, Brazil is bolstering its defense capabilities, aiming for defense spending approaching 2 percent of GDP and developing a national strategy around critical minerals—where it holds significant reserves. As Amorim argues, the current trend points towards a crude carve-up of the world into spheres of influence, with major powers disregarding each other’s land grabs in practice. Brazil's Defense Minister recently stated that if invaded, the country “would have to open the gate,” highlighting the perceived imbalance of power.

As Latin American nations prepare for upcoming elections, including Brazil in October, concerns over sovereignty and external interference are expected to play a significant role in shaping political discourse. The region’s response will likely determine the future trajectory of US-Latin American relations.

(With inputs from Jacobin)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.