Episode 532: After the Strike, Venezuela, Oversight, and Escalation

Today, Les, Jamil, Morgan, and Jess discuss rising tensions around Venezuela, where the U.S. has surged military assets into the region after months of striking drug-running vessels, and President Trump is set to meet with his cabinet tonight to decide next steps. Reports suggest an ultimatum may have been delivered to Nicolás Maduro over the weekend. One early U.S. strike is now under bipartisan scrutiny after allegations that American forces fired on survivors—prompting both Armed Services Committees to open investigations into the legality and authorities behind current operations.

What are the administration’s strategic aims, and is the U.S. prepared for the consequences of the largest Western military buildup in the Caribbean since 1994? How will Congress’ stepped-up oversight shape the administration’s options? And with a streamlined NSC structure and an administration leaning into ambiguity, does this campaign reflect a coherent strategy—or a high-risk pressure play designed to keep allies and adversaries off balance?

Check out these sources that helped shape our fellows’ discussions: 

https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/venezuela/article313261442.html 

https://stories.theconversation.com/tracking-the-us-military-in-the-caribbean/ 

@lestermunson

@jamil_n_jaffer

@morganlroach

@nottvjessjones

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