美国霸权的拉美棋局（上）：1989年，美国出兵强抓巴拿马领导人

Core Viewpoint - The recent U.S. intervention in Venezuela, targeting President Maduro and his family, is seen as a resurgence of the Monroe Doctrine in the 21st century, reflecting America's historical pattern of intervention in Latin America for resource exploitation and political control [1]. Group 1: Historical Context - For over 200 years, the U.S. has adhered to the Monroe Doctrine, viewing Latin America as its "backyard" and frequently intervening through military actions and coups, causing significant harm to local populations [1]. - The U.S. military operation in Panama, named "Operation Just Cause," was launched on December 20, 1989, under the pretext of protecting citizens, combating drug trafficking, and restoring democratic elections [1][4]. Group 2: The Shift in Relations - Manuel Noriega, initially an ally of the U.S. during the Cold War, became an adversary as he adopted a more nationalistic stance regarding the Panama Canal and opposed U.S. military presence [2][4]. - The U.S. began to publicly distance itself from Noriega in 1988, leading to legal actions against him for drug trafficking and money laundering [4]. Group 3: Military Action - The military operation involved approximately 27,000 U.S. troops, making it one of the largest military actions in the Western Hemisphere since the Vietnam War, with coordinated efforts from all branches of the military [5]. - U.S. forces quickly targeted key locations in Panama, leading to the rapid collapse of the Panamanian defense forces within a week [5]. Group 4: Aftermath and Consequences - Noriega sought refuge in the Vatican embassy but eventually surrendered on January 3, 1990, leading to his extradition to the U.S. for trial [6][7]. - The military intervention resulted in significant destruction to Panama's infrastructure and economy, leading to increased unemployment and social instability [8]. - The U.S. actions faced widespread international condemnation, with the UN General Assembly passing a resolution deeming the military action a violation of Panama's sovereignty [9].