The Real News Podcast Hands Off Latin America
Jan 16, 2026
In this discussion, Steve Ellner, an academic expert on U.S.–Latin America relations, sheds light on the global response to the U.S. invasion of Venezuela. He highlights widespread protests and the public's outrage in countries like Mexico and Brazil. Ellner also explores the pushback from Latin American leaders against U.S. intervention, while emphasizing the consequences of Trump's strategies on regional unity and sovereignty. The conversation reveals the interconnected struggles facing Cuba, Colombia, and Venezuela under the looming threat of U.S. military actions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Invasion Echoes Two Centuries Of Intervention
- The invasion fits a long continuum of U.S. interventions justified by Monroe-era logic, updated as Trump's "Donroe" Doctrine.
- Trump reframed hemispheric dominance as an active national security priority tied to resources like oil.
Resource Control Framed As Security
- Trump framed U.S. actions as reclaiming dominance to protect commerce, territory, and resources.
- Experts warn this worldview treats foreign nations' resources as fair targets for U.S. power.
Success Could Expand Military Targets
- Trump's successful operation in Venezuela may embolden further actions against Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico.
- Administration hawks explicitly named Cuba and Colombia as potential next targets.