A recent analysis of Donald Trump’s policies suggests his approach to international affairs is markedly different from previous U.S. Administrations, prompting both criticism and reassessment from former allies. The assessment, by analyst Andres Herkelis, examines 14 key aspects of Trump’s presidency and their global impact. This comes as the U.S. Continues to exert influence in regions facing political upheaval, most notably in Venezuela.
The situation in Venezuela has escalated sharply, with the capture of Nicolás Maduro following U.S. Military strikes. According to reports on January 3, 2026, Maduro and his wife have been transported to the United States, where he faces drug trafficking charges in New York.
1. Venezuela
The changes in Venezuela extend beyond the January arrest and removal of dictator Nicolás Maduro. The U.S. Has been increasing pressure on the Venezuelan leader since Trump took office last January, according to reports. Trump has blamed Maduro for the influx of Venezuelan migrants into the U.S., estimating that hundreds of thousands have arrived as a result of the country’s economic crisis and political repression since 2013.
Without providing specific evidence, Trump has accused Maduro of “emptying his prisons and insane asylums” and forcing inmates to migrate to the U.S. He has also focused on combating the flow of drugs – particularly fentanyl and cocaine – into the country. The Trump administration has designated two Venezuelan criminal groups – Tren de Aragua and Cartel de los Soles – as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), alleging the latter is led by Maduro himself. Analysts note that Cartel de los Soles is not a structured organization, but rather a term used to describe corrupt officials facilitating cocaine transit through Venezuela.
The U.S. Government increased rewards for information leading to Maduro’s capture and announced plans to designate the Maduro government as an FTO. The development underscores growing U.S. Involvement in Venezuelan affairs and the potential for further regional instability. Trump stated the U.S. Would “run” Venezuela “until such time as One can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.”
