Washington Free Beacon editor in chief Matthew Continetti argued Tuesday that Russia is trying to undermine permanently America's place in the Western Hemisphere by propping up Nicolas Maduro's regime in Venezuela.

On Fox News Channel's Special Report with Bret Baier, Continetti said China and Cuba are both taking pains to help Maduro maintain his grip on power. But he stated that Russia has the largest overall aim: Overthrowing the Monroe Doctrine.

"I think Russia is the key player here. If you look at the Russian actions from the military flights to Venezuela, to inserting the so-called little green men, these kind of non-uniformed paramilitary officers, to sending formal military advisers and assistance to Maduro, Russia is clearly trying to overthrow the Monroe Doctrine, which for centuries has said, no outside interference from outside powers in the Western Hemisphere. In order to elevate the situation, I think the administration needs to train its criticism on Russia," Continetti said.

Continetti's comments came after President Donald Trump tweeted on Tuesday that the United States will place heavy sanctions on Cuba is it does not stop assisting Maduro in his attempts to remain in power.

"If Cuban Troops and Militia do not immediately CEASE military and other operations for the purpose of causing death and destruction to the Constitution of Venezuela, a full and complete embargo, together with highest-level sanctions, will be placed on the island of Cuba. Hopefully, all Cuban soldiers will promptly and peacefully return to their island!," Trump wrote.

….embargo, together with highest-level sanctions, will be placed on the island of Cuba. Hopefully, all Cuban soldiers will promptly and peacefully return to their island! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 30, 2019

The Monroe Doctrine was written in 1823 during President James Monroe's administration and was designed to keep European powers from attempting to re-colonize North America, South America, and Central America. It states that "as a principle in which the rights and interests of the United States are involved, that the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers."

The United States has historically defended the Western Hemisphere from outside interference.

Maduro is trying to hold control of the military as he faces growing protests against him and in favor of Juan Guaido, whose constitutional claim to being president of Venezuela has been recognized by almost all of the country's neighbors, in addition to the United States.