DISCURSIVE STRATEGIES OF IMPERIALISM: PSYCHOANALYTIC ANALYSIS OF TRUMP'S DISCOURSE ON THE INVASION OF VENEZUELA

Abstract

Our time is being shaken by political, social, economic, and subjective transformations that, although previously signaled, have begun to erupt abruptly like massive and relentless avalanches, awakening sensations of uncertainty, fear, and disorientation. The election of Donald Trump to the government of the United States of America (USA) has been the major trigger. Inaugurated in January 2025, he immediately launched an aggressive policy against other countries and leaders considered dangerous enemies. This article aims to understand the meaning-making strategies used by Trump to justify and legitimize his interventionist actions, particularly in Venezuela, against the government of Nicolás Maduro. To this end, news reports, social media posts, interview statements, and government announcements were collected from major media outlets until January 20, 2026. Additionally, journalistic pieces from columnists of leading communication vehicles were compiled. The collected material was subjected to content analysis and discussed with the aid of authors and theories pertinent to the established analytical categories. It was possible to verify that Trump employs short and vague statements, delivered in an assertive and categorical manner, in a threatening tone and laden with emotional content of aggressive nature to subjugate, convince, and forcefully impose what he deems necessary and beneficial for his country. Rationalizations, denialisms, and displacements that conceal his true intentions are some of the main devices employed. By attacking and weakening the world order, he leverages chaos, intimidation, and fear to exercise absolutist, imperialist power.