Beyond Borders: The Long Shadow of U.S. Intervention in Venezuela (2026)

History doesn't repeat, but it often rhymes. As of January 4, 2026, the escalating situation in Venezuela serves as the latest chapter in the long, complex saga of U.S. involvement in Latin America. According to NPR, this isn't just a modern crisis but a reflection of a century-old geopolitical pattern.

U.S. Intervention in Venezuela History: A Recurring Script

Eduardo Gamarra, a professor of politics at Florida International University, told NPR that Venezuela represents the most recent instance of the United States' long history of interventions in the region. He suggests that while the names and faces change, the underlying mechanics of power and influence remain remarkably consistent.

The Geopolitical Tug-of-War

Industry observers note that U.S. policy in the hemisphere has often vacillated between promoting democratic ideals and securing strategic interests. In Venezuela, the combination of massive oil reserves and a staunchly anti-Washington administration has fueled decades of friction. This tension is widely seen as a continuation of policies that shaped the political landscapes of countries like Chile and Guatemala during the 20th century.