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The United States is signaling a renewed focus on regional dominance in the Americas, echoing historical policies like the Monroe Doctrine and raising questions about sovereignty and interference in Latin American affairs. Recent actions by the Trump administration, including financial incentives for aligned nations and penalties for those who diverge from U.S. interests, suggest a strategy to reassert influence across the hemisphere [[1]]. Brazil‘s current political landscape-and its recent conviction of former President Bolsonaro-has positioned the country as a critical focal point in this evolving geopolitical dynamic.
The United States is increasingly asserting influence over nations in the Western Hemisphere through a revived approach reminiscent of the “Monroe Doctrine,” with Brazil currently serving as a key test case for this strategy. This approach blends elements of the 19th-century policy articulated by President James Monroe with the priorities of the current administration under Donald Trump.
According to reports, Trump has been implementing a series of actions since the beginning of the year aimed at reshaping U.S. foreign policy. A greater degree of control over Latin America is seen as advantageous, offering access to abundant natural resources, strategically important locations, and potentially lucrative markets.
The administration has reportedly been rewarding leaders who align with its demands. In October, Argentine President Javier Milei received a $20 billion financial rescue package, and El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele saw the U.S. lift a travel advisory following his acceptance of deported Venezuelan citizens.
Conversely, countries with left-leaning governments that do not cooperate with U.S. initiatives are facing repercussions. Venezuela has been subject to increased hostility from the U.S. military since September, and Colombian President Gustavo Petro was accused of being a drug trafficker after criticizing U.S. actions against vessels in the region.
Brazil, however, presents the most significant challenge to Trump’s efforts at increased control. In July, the U.S. imposed tariffs and sanctions of 50% on Brazilian goods in an attempt to interfere with the criminal proceedings brought by the Brazilian government against former President Jair Bolsonaro, a key ally of Trump.
Despite these measures, Bolsonaro was ultimately convicted by Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court and sentenced to 27 years in prison for attempting to undermine the democratic process. The popularity of current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who criticized Trump’s tariffs, subsequently rose. Weeks after Bolsonaro’s conviction, Trump abruptly shifted his stance, meeting with Lula, expressing his admiration, and initiating negotiations to end the tariffs.
*Intern under the supervision of Diogo Max
