The New Age of US Expansion: What's Really Going On?
In early 2026, the world watched as the US took control of Venezuela in a bold move that shocked many. Donald Trump, the US president, was seen flying back to Washington DC, boasting about the successful operation. He claimed that the US was now in charge of Venezuela and that American companies would soon start extracting the country's oil.
Trump didn't stop there. He made it clear that other nations could face the same fate. He talked about Cuba being ready to fall and criticized Colombia's leader, calling him a "sick man." Trump also mentioned his plans to take over Greenland, a territory that belongs to Denmark, a US ally.
The US government made it clear that they were serious about their new approach to foreign policy. They posted messages on social media, declaring that the Americas were "OUR hemisphere." Stephen Miller, a top aide to Trump, explained that the world is governed by strength and power.
A New Era of Imperialism
This isn't the first time the US has invaded other countries. But it is the first time since World War II that the US has openly admitted to being imperialistic. The other two world superpowers, Russia and China, are also pursuing their own imperialistic goals.
Trump's vision for the US is inspired by past presidents who led the country through periods of territorial expansion. He has even come up with his own version of the Monroe Doctrine, a policy that was first introduced in 1823. The original doctrine was meant to protect the Americas from European colonialism. But Trump's version is more about the US taking control of the region.
Experts Weigh In
Some experts argue that the US has always been imperialistic, but Trump is just being more open about it. Others point out that the US still maintains military bases around the world and owns several territories. However, they also argue that the post-World War II era has seen more decolonization than imperial expansion.
The US seizure of a Russian oil tanker has raised questions about whether the three superpowers can coexist without major conflicts. Some experts believe that the greater risk is the subjugation of other countries rather than the empires clashing with one another.
Political Constraints
Trump's imperialistic impulses may be constrained by US politics. While his base is thrilled by his actions, the majority of Americans are opposed to long-term involvement in other countries. However, with the old order demolished, Trump's US could be a chaotic factor in the world.
