The Nostalgic Delusion of 1989

The U.S. military buildup around Venezuela has drawn comparisons to past regime change in Panama. But Washington cannot invade its way to democracy in Caracas.

U.S. soldiers man their security position in Panama City during Operation Just Cause. November 11, 2025, 7:00 AM Comment icon View Comments ( )

Trump’s Second Term

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As the U.S. military escalates its posture around Venezuela—with naval deployments in the Caribbean, B-52 overflights, lethal strikes on alleged drug boats, and confirmed CIA covert operations—advocates of regime change are reviving a dangerous analogy. Many have pointed to the United States’ 1989 invasion of Panama and toppling of dictator Manuel Noriega as proof that swift, surgical operati

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