The Dispatch Podcast Taking Maduro: Wise or Foolish?
39 snips
Jan 9, 2026 
Join Jonah Goldberg, a conservative commentator known for his insights on foreign policy, Kevin Williamson, a writer celebrated for deep political analysis, and David French, a legal expert and New York Times contributor. They dive into the complexities of U.S. intervention in Venezuela, debating the legality of capturing Maduro under international law. The conversation shifts to the implications of such actions on U.S. global authority and discusses a recent ICE shooting, exploring the need for accountability in law enforcement amidst heated rhetoric.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mixed Motives Behind Maduro Capture
- The Maduro operation mixed motives: drugs, oil, immigration, and politics all played roles according to the panel.
- Kevin Williamson warns the public legal pretext (drug charges) may be a small fig leaf over broader strategic aims.
Legality Versus Enforceability
- David French argues the Maduro arrest plainly violated the UN Charter and domestic legal norms.
- He says legal constraints exist but lack enforceable mechanisms given congressional inaction and judicial limits.
Weigh Long-Term Costs Before Regime Action
- Jonah Goldberg urges weighing long-term moral hazards and precedents before endorsing extra-legal regime grabs.
- He recommends assessing costs and benefits, not just short-term gains from removing dictators.