Americano Is Trump going for Iran next?
Jan 8, 2026
In this intriguing conversation, Owen Matthews, a journalist specializing in Russian strategy, and Paul Wood, a former BBC correspondent, dissect the implications of Trump's recent actions in Venezuela and the potential move towards Iran. They explore the symbolic ties between Iran and Venezuela while questioning the significance of US claims about Iran's influence in drug trafficking. The discussion also delves into the risks of regime decapitation versus change, Russia's limited reach, and whether Trump's actions signify a breaking point in the global order.
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Trump's FAFO Style Replaces Strategy
- Paul Wood argues Trump's approach is impulsive and lacks coherent long-term strategy, operating tweet-to-tweet.
- He calls it the FAFO mindset: provoke and see what happens, rather than a planned doctrine.
Iran–Venezuela Link Is Largely Symbolic
- Owen Matthews says Iran-Venezuela ties are mostly symbolic rather than strategically useful.
- He doubts Venezuela materially advances Iran's ability to project power into the Americas.
Venezuela Isn't The Core Drug Pipeline
- Owen Matthews notes the US drug-migration narrative overstates Venezuela's role compared with Mexico and Chinese involvement.
- He sees the Venezuelan element as a minor, symbolic piece rather than the central pipeline.