Donald Trump’s approach to Venezuela’s ongoing political and economic crisis should shift away from the “maximum pressure” strategy, as it has proven ineffective and counterproductive. A new, more nuanced approach is necessary to address the complex situation in Venezuela without exacerbating the humanitarian crisis or strengthening Maduro’s grip on power.

A New Approach for Trump’s Venezuela Policy

Targeted Sanctions and Diplomatic Pressure

Instead of broad economic sanctions that harm the Venezuelan people, Trump should focus on:

1. Maintaining targeted sanctions on Maduro and key regime officials

2. Coordinating with allies, particularly in Latin America and Europe, to increase diplomatic pressure

3. Freezing assets of regime officials and their family members abroad

This approach would maintain pressure on the regime while minimizing the impact on ordinary Venezuelans.

Incentivize Democratic Reforms

Trump’s administration should:

1. Offer gradual sanctions relief in exchange for verifiable democratic reforms

2. Support international mediation efforts to facilitate dialogue between Maduro and the opposition

3. Encourage free and fair elections with robust international monitoring

By providing clear incentives for positive change, this strategy could create opportunities for democratic progress.

Address the Humanitarian Crisis

To mitigate the suffering of Venezuelans and reduce migration pressures, Trump should:

1. Increase humanitarian aid to Venezuela and neighboring countries hosting refugees

2. Support international efforts to address food shortages and improve healthcare access

3. Collaborate with regional partners to manage migration flows and provide assistance to Venezuelan refugees

Engage with Regional Allies

Trump’s new approach should prioritize:

1. Working closely with democratic Latin American nations to build a united front against Maduro

2. Leveraging relationships with countries like Brazil and Colombia to facilitate regional solutions

3. Supporting efforts by neighboring countries to address border security and migration challenges

Avoid Military Intervention Rhetoric

Trump should refrain from threatening military intervention, as it:

1. Strengthens Maduro’s anti-imperialist narrative

2. Alienates regional allies who oppose such action

3. Risks further destabilizing the region

Instead, focus on diplomatic and economic tools to promote change.

Conclusion

By adopting a more nuanced and multilateral approach, Trump can maintain pressure on the Maduro regime while avoiding the pitfalls of the “maximum pressure” strategy. This new policy should prioritize the well-being of the Venezuelan people, engage regional allies, and create incentives for democratic reforms. While change may not come quickly, this approach offers a more sustainable path towards addressing Venezuela’s crisis without inadvertently strengthening Maduro’s position.