One Decision Trump's Power Play: Ex-Ambassador On What's Really Happening in Venezuela, Cuba, and the Panama Canal
Jan 22, 2026
John Feeley, former U.S. Ambassador to Panama from 2015-2018, shares his insights into Latin America during the Trump administration. He discusses the power shift to Delcy Rodríguez in Venezuela and contrasts it with past events like the Panama invasion. Feeley explores China's growing influence in the region, the implications of U.S. rhetoric on the Panama Canal, and critiques the decline of diplomacy under Trump. He warns about the dangers of neglecting diplomatic efforts while navigating rapid geopolitical changes.
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Venezuela vs Panama: Key Differences
- Venezuela's situation differs sharply from Panama 1989 despite surface similarities like dictatorial rule and narcotics links.
- The legal and immediate military pretexts for intervention in Venezuela are far weaker than they were in Panama.
Top-Down Change Not Full Regime Overhaul
- The Trump administration framed actions as law enforcement, not regime change, until events made that claim legally and politically fragile.
- Their move appears aimed at replacing the top leader while leaving the regime structure intact to avoid a security vacuum.
Delcy Rodríguez: Skilled Survivor
- John Feeley describes Delcy Rodríguez as an educated, ruthless survivor with personal animus toward the U.S. rooted in family history.
- He warns she will not willingly provide security that would enable an electoral transition removing her.
