Best of the Spectator Americano: is Trump going for Iran next?
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Jan 11, 2026 Owen Matthews, Russia editor and foreign policy expert, and Paul Wood, former BBC correspondent, dive into the implications of Trump's recent actions in Venezuela. They discuss the potential for similar maneuvers toward Iran and the significance of the 'axis of resistance.' The guests analyze the strategic ties between Iran and Venezuela, as well as the geopolitical motivations behind U.S. interventions. They also consider Russia's complex reactions and the dangers of breaking international norms, highlighting risks in Taiwan and the Baltics.
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Trump's Return To Blunt Power
- Trump's Venezuela strike signals a return to blunt, moment-driven US power projection.
- Paul Wood and Owen Matthews warn this reflects impulse over strategy and could prompt further impulsive actions.
Iran-Venezuela Ties Are Mostly Symbolic
- Iran's ties to Venezuela are largely symbolic rather than strategically decisive.
- Owen Matthews stresses the relationship offers political cover more than real power projection capability.
Drug Routes Are More Sino-Mexican Than Venezuelan
- Claims of Iranian-backed drug pipelines via Venezuela may exist but are not core to US drug flows.
- Owen Matthews notes the narcotics routes are more heavily tied to Mexico and Chinese actors.