The Hemisphere Comes First

A nationalist foreign policy is a policy of priorities. Since 1823, the first American priority has been the security of our own hemisphere.

That explains a position some commentators find confusing: we supported the removal of Nicolás Maduro, and we oppose the war in Iran. The question was never whether to use force. It was where, why and to what end.

Venezuela fits the Doctrine

Under Maduro, Venezuela became a narco-state in our hemisphere. It gave Russia, China, Iran and Cuba a foothold, and it sent drugs, gangs and millions of migrants north. Removing that regime was limited, decisive and inside our sphere. It served a direct American interest and every capital in the region noticed.

There is precedent. In 1989 the first President Bush removed Manuel Noriega from Panama in a matter of weeks, with clear aims and a clear end.

Iran does not

A war in Iran fails each test. It is far from home, it has no clear end, and it draws us into a regional struggle that others have fought for centuries. It uses up munitions our own deterrence needs, pulls ships away from the Pacific and the Caribbean, and gives China and Russia exactly what they want: an America that is tired and stretched.

“In the wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, nor does it comport with our policy so to do.”James Monroe, 1823

The rule of thumb

• In our hemisphere, act firmly against regimes, cartels and foreign powers that threaten us.
• Beyond it, lead through alliances that serve us, deter through strength, and decline wars of choice.
• Everywhere, ask whether the action leaves the United States stronger.

Monroe's message had two halves, and both still matter.