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Washington and Bogotá have enjoyed security cooperation for decades but ties have deteriorated since Trump began his second term last January.

Trump said the U.S. expects to maintain direct oversight of Venezuela for an extended period, signaling that Washington's role in running the country and managing its oil resources will last "much longer" than a year.

The repercussions of Washington’s intervention in Venezuela. Plus: the films to look out for in 2026

The ship is alleged to be part of a shadow fleet dodging western sanctions. It had no oil onboard – but was it carrying Russian weapons?

First articulated in 1823, the Monroe Doctrine was largely meant to stave off European colonial influence in the western hemisphere, but modern presidents have used it to justify military intervention in Latin America.

Plus: Thank capitalism for the best parts of college football bowl season

President Trump has set his sights on Venezuela's vast oil reserves, the largest in the world. If consolidated under Washington’s influence, about one third of global oil reserves could end up under US control. Yet, experts are skeptical about Trump's plans, saying it won't be cheap or easy.

THE INDEPENDENT VIEW: Editorial: Washington’s new imperialism has trashed the transatlantic alliance – but Keir Starmer and other leaders can yet persuade the US that they have much to contribute to its national security

There could very well be a protracted struggle in which no actor fully prevails.