'Donroe Doctrine' aims to weaken China, Trump's inner circle says

Policy on Venezuela, Greenland, Iran and Cuba align to undermine Beijing's influence

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping talk on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea on Oct. 30, 2025.  © Reuters

RINTARO TOBITA

January 25, 2026 07:28 JST

WASHINGTON -- A view is emerging among those around President Donald Trump that the use of force in Venezuela and Iran, as well as threats made against Greenland and Cuba, is aimed at containing China's power and giving the U.S. a geopolitical advantage.