The Vicious Cycle Trump May Restart
This article argues that the U.S. seizure of Venezuelan oil reserves under the Trump administration mirrors historical patterns of American imperialism. It suggests these actions will likely lead to long-term instability and anti-American sentiment.
Why it matters
The piece highlights the geopolitical risks and ethical concerns associated with using military force to secure natural resources.
The American seizure of Venezuelan oil is likely the first step in a familiar, unhappy chain of events.
Maryorin Mendez / AFP / Getty September 3, 2026, 6:32 PM ET Share Save By the time he retired from the Marine Corps, in 1931, Major General Smedley Butler had served in Mexico, Haiti, Cuba, the Philippines, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and China. It was the golden age of American imperialism, and Butler was one of its golden boys, among the most decorated fighters in U.S. history.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in