US President Donald Trump appears to be losing steam as he launches a series of aggressive military actions against Venezuela, marking a shift away from the energetic campaigner who dominated the 2024 presidential race. A year after returning to power, Trump's strongman image is showing signs of wear.
At recent events, including cabinet meetings and press briefings, Trump appears drowsy, with his 79-year-old frame looking like it may be struggling to keep up with its role as commander-in-chief. His explanation for appearing disengaged - that he was resting his eyes or blinking - rings hollow when juxtaposed with the assertive claims made about military operations.
Concerns have been raised about Trump's physical and mental state, particularly in light of repeated boasts about passing cognitive tests and undergoing rigorous medical exams. Critics point to inconsistencies between these claims and recent appearances where Trump appears lethargic.
In a bizarre turn of events, Trump launched an air strike on Venezuela and ordered the seizure of President Nicolás Maduro, who was then flown to New York on narco-trafficking charges. The operation was met with swift condemnation from the international community, including Cuba and Mexico, which now appear on Trump's list of potential targets.
Critics argue that such a brazen display of aggression is more characteristic of authoritarian leaders rather than an established US president. This raises questions about whether Trump's approach to governance can sustain itself beyond its current momentum or if it will ultimately falter against the realities of power and politics.
A notable parallel to Trump's actions in Venezuela can be drawn with historical examples of "gunboat diplomacy," where the US employed military force to assert control over weaker nations for imperialistic purposes. The likes of Major General Smedley Butler, who participated in numerous operations, described such actions as nothing more than racketeering for big business and finance.
Ultimately, whether Trump will pivot towards a more measured approach or continue down the path of brinkmanship remains uncertain.
At recent events, including cabinet meetings and press briefings, Trump appears drowsy, with his 79-year-old frame looking like it may be struggling to keep up with its role as commander-in-chief. His explanation for appearing disengaged - that he was resting his eyes or blinking - rings hollow when juxtaposed with the assertive claims made about military operations.
Concerns have been raised about Trump's physical and mental state, particularly in light of repeated boasts about passing cognitive tests and undergoing rigorous medical exams. Critics point to inconsistencies between these claims and recent appearances where Trump appears lethargic.
In a bizarre turn of events, Trump launched an air strike on Venezuela and ordered the seizure of President Nicolás Maduro, who was then flown to New York on narco-trafficking charges. The operation was met with swift condemnation from the international community, including Cuba and Mexico, which now appear on Trump's list of potential targets.
Critics argue that such a brazen display of aggression is more characteristic of authoritarian leaders rather than an established US president. This raises questions about whether Trump's approach to governance can sustain itself beyond its current momentum or if it will ultimately falter against the realities of power and politics.
A notable parallel to Trump's actions in Venezuela can be drawn with historical examples of "gunboat diplomacy," where the US employed military force to assert control over weaker nations for imperialistic purposes. The likes of Major General Smedley Butler, who participated in numerous operations, described such actions as nothing more than racketeering for big business and finance.
Ultimately, whether Trump will pivot towards a more measured approach or continue down the path of brinkmanship remains uncertain.