Audio Briefs The United States Cannot Go It Alone in Venezuela
Jan 5, 2026
Jon B. Alterman, a Senior fellow at CSIS and expert on U.S. foreign policy, shares critical insights on Venezuela. He discusses the implications of U.S. unilateral actions and their potential to solidify adversaries like Russia and China. Alterman highlights the importance of building international consensus to empower a legitimate Venezuelan government. He warns of the dangers of neglecting long-term planning and urges the U.S. to engage regional partners to foster stability and shared investment in Venezuela's recovery.
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U.S. Power Sparks Global Alarm
- Jon B. Alterman warns that unilateral U.S. action in Venezuela alarms both adversaries and allies despite showcasing U.S. capabilities.
- That alarm risks driving other states to hedge and seek constraints on American power.
Russia And China Will Weaponize Solidarity
- Alterman notes Russia and China will cultivate solidarity against the U.S. and push BRICS toward political opposition to Washington.
- They will quietly help insurgents, shelter actors, and frustrate economic and institutional engagement with Venezuela.
Allies Will Quietly Hedge
- Even democracies like Brazil, India, and NATO partners will quietly hedge against an emboldened U.S.
- They will deepen ties with China and build leverage to protect their interests from U.S. unpredictability.
