The Lincoln Project Maduro Got Snatched: Sponsored by Exxon ⛽
Jan 6, 2026
The capture of Nicolás Maduro opens a troubling new chapter for Venezuela. The discussion reveals the pitfalls of viewing military interventions as simple solutions, with past failures looming large. Trump's motivations are scrutinized, highlighting a profit-driven approach to foreign policy over genuine democratic goals. Challenges of post-capture governance, regional repercussions, and the potential for prolonged conflict are all explored. Ultimately, the consequences of U.S. actions may inadvertently strengthen rivals like China and Russia.
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Capture Is Not A Strategy
- Snatching Maduro is the easy part; governing Venezuela is the hard, long-term problem.
- Rick Wilson warns the operation risks becoming a prolonged, costly U.S. entanglement driven by oil and ego.
Oil Over Democracy
- The Trump team offers no coherent nation-building plan and prioritizes oil profits over democracy.
- Wilson says that approach risks insurgency, regional blowback, and long-term commitments.
King Saud DC-3 Anecdote
- Wilson recalls the 'DC-3' moment anecdote about King Saud to mock MAGA chest-beating.
- He uses it to show snatching a dictator looks impressive but doesn't mean systems won't fail.
