Venezuela: An Effects-Based Strategy for the 21st-Century
Abstract
In the post 9/11 global security environment, it is evident that the United States is confronting numerous political, military and economic threats dispersed throughout the international community. Within the western hemisphere, it is clear that the current situation in Venezuela has transformed a once strong democratic country and U.S. ally into a nation on the brink of political and social instability. Under the current U.S. policy, the already fragile relationship between Venezuela and the United States will continue to deteriorate and further destabilize Venezuela, cultivate anti U.S. sentiments among the Venezuelan populace, and adversely effect U.S. national interests, primarily within the realm of international trade and oil exports. Most importantly, if left neglected and/or ignored by the United States, the Venezuelan situation may be elevated to the point that would compel a U.S. military response that neither the United States nor Venezuela desires. The U.S. government must realize that a safe, secure, stable and U.S. friendly Venezuela is in the best interest of the United States, and that the issues currently contained within Venezuela must be dealt with in a synergistic manner; an aspect the current U.S. strategy does not do. By incorporating an Effects-Based Approach to Operations at the national, strategic level, and implementing an effects-based strategy, the United States may effectively and efficiently employ the instruments of national power to coerce, convince and/or compel President Hugo Chavez, and the Venezuelan government, to observe U.S. policies within the region.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 14, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA452240
Entities
People
- Gary R. Graves
Organizations
- National Defense University