President Trump, who previously campaigned against U.S. interventionism and regime change, stated that the U.S. is "in charge" of Venezuela. This declaration marks a significant departure from his earlier "America First" platform, which emphasized non-intervention in foreign conflicts, according to NPR White House correspondent Tamara Keith.

The shift in policy followed the deployment of U.S. troops to Venezuela, culminating in the removal of President Nicolas Maduro. Keith noted that Trump's rise to political prominence was largely fueled by public disapproval of American involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya, all of which were viewed as costly and ultimately unsuccessful nation-building endeavors.

Trump's initial stance resonated with a significant portion of the American public who had grown weary of prolonged military engagements overseas. His campaign speeches frequently criticized the Iraq War and the nation-building efforts in Afghanistan as failures. "America First has been a key part of President Trump's political brand for more than a decade," Keith reported.

The rationale behind the change in policy toward Venezuela remains a subject of debate. The administration has yet to fully articulate the reasons for the intervention, leaving analysts to speculate on the strategic and economic factors that may have influenced the decision. The implications of this shift extend beyond Venezuela, potentially reshaping U.S. foreign policy and its approach to international relations.

As of today, the situation in Venezuela remains fluid, with the U.S. maintaining a military presence. The long-term consequences of this intervention and the future of U.S.-Venezuelan relations are still unfolding.