Venezuela Next? The Long U.S. History of Latin American Intervention

A new NPR interview has cast the current U.S. stance on Venezuela within a much older pattern. The discussion highlights a consistent history of political and military involvement by the United States in Latin America. Professor Eduardo Gamarra, an expert in politics and international relations at Florida International University, outlined this history. He explained that U.S. intervention, a term for direct involvement in another nation's affairs, has been a recurring policy for over a century. These actions have ranged from supporting regime changes to full military invasions. The goal has often been to protect American economic interests or counter foreign influence during the Cold War. The conversation suggests Venezuela may now be the latest focus of this long-standing approach. The U.S. has imposed severe sanctions and recognized opposition leaders as the country's legitimate government. Professor Gamarra's analysis provides critical context. It frames today's tensions not as an isolated event, but as part of a well-established regional dynamic.