Trump’s Gulf Seizures Signal New Drug War Framework, Congressman Warns

Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., said Thursday morning that President Donald Trump’s seizure of an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela marks the emergence of a new foreign-policy framework he calls the “Trump Doctrine.”

Zinke described the doctrine as blending principles from the Monroe Doctrine—which states the U.S. will not accept foreign influence in South America—with former President Theodore Roosevelt’s approach of using naval strength to protect American interests. “What we’re seeing is an emerging of the Trump doctrine,” he said. “It’s really taken from the Monroe Doctrine—meaning the U.S. won’t accept influence of foreign powers in South America—and a little gunboat diplomacy from Teddy Roosevelt.”

According to Zinke, this strategy is actively targeting narcotics flowing through the region. “Trump is doing what he’s done—he’s controlling drugs in and out of Venezuela,” Zinke said. “He’s seizing illegal ships in the Gulf. So, the Gulf of America has become the Trump doctrine—and we’re seeing it very aggressively played out.”

Zinke, a former Navy SEAL commander, assessed the high-risk nature of the maritime operation that resulted in the tanker’s capture. He noted the inherent dangers of rappelling onto a moving vessel at night, including heavy seas, caving ladders, and sniper support from helicopters. “The mission itself is inherently dangerous,” he said. “But when executed well—believe me, there’s no one better than the U.S. Navy SEALs and Coast Guard—our forces are well equipped.”

Zinke also addressed President Trump’s plans to launch land strikes against alleged drug-trafficking targets in Venezuela and potentially other nations. “These groups are defined as terrorist organizations,” he said. “They’re bringing drugs that kill thousands of Americans, and the president has the authority and responsibility to keep America safe. If a missile was launched, it might kill 200 people—but these are ground missiles at sea with drugs killing thousands.” He emphasized Trump’s seriousness regarding “narco-terrorism”: “You’re not going to run drugs into the United States from the Gulf of America.”

Zinke warned traffickers may shift tactics next, potentially using aircraft or disguised commercial vessels as enforcement tightens.