President Donald Trump has invoked historical foreign policy doctrines to justify recent actions, including the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, attempts to acquire Greenland, and threats against Iran. Trump stated at a recent news conference that the capture of Maduro was justified because his actions constituted a "gross violation of the core principles of American foreign policy dating back more than two centuries to the Monroe Doctrine."

The Monroe Doctrine, articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, cautioned European powers against further colonization or intervention in the Americas. Trump has asserted that the doctrine has been surpassed, stating, "And the Monroe Doctrine is a big deal, but we've superseded it by a lot, by a real lot. They now call it the 'Donroe Doctrine.'"

These actions and statements have drawn parallels to the foreign policy approach of President Theodore Roosevelt, particularly his "big stick" diplomacy. Roosevelt's philosophy, summarized as "speak softly and carry a big stick," emphasized diplomacy as the primary tool of foreign policy, but maintained that military force should be available as a last resort.

Some analysts suggest that Trump's approach echoes Roosevelt's assertive foreign policy, while others argue that Trump's actions represent a departure from traditional diplomatic norms. The comparison arises from Trump's willingness to use strong rhetoric and consider military options, reminiscent of Roosevelt's era of gunboat diplomacy.