If the Real Simón Bolívar Met Hugo Chávez, He'd See Red


 

Publication Date: August 2007

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): James M. Roberts

Research Area: Government

Keywords: Latin American; Venezuela; PetroCaribe; MERCOSUR

Type: Report

Coverage: Venezuela

Abstract:

Hugo Chávez aims to dominate the Caribbean Basin and Andean region and fulfill the dream of his mentor, Fidel Castro. Venezuela has become a hub of narcotics trafficking, and its rapid military buildup will likely lead to a renewed regional arms race. The U.S. should counter Chávez by increasing its support for market-based democratic institutions and encouraging true reform.