Conversations With Coleman How Cuba Propped Up Maduro
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Jan 8, 2026 Gelet Martínez Fragela, a Cuban journalist and activist, dives deep into the intricate ties between Cuba and Venezuela under authoritarian regimes. He highlights how economic mismanagement paved the way for figures like Maduro and discusses the vital role Cubans played in his military support. Gelet reveals the chilling landscape of illicit economies, including drug trafficking and human rights abuses. He also sheds light on the implications of U.S. foreign policy, the Castro-Chávez alliance, and what the future might hold for Venezuelans post-Maduro.
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Oil Wealth Then Political Fragility
- Venezuela's oil boom once made it one of Latin America's richest countries and funded broad social programs.
- Chavez exploited economic fragility and corruption to centralize power and hollow out democratic institutions.
The State Became A Cartel
- The Venezuelan state evolved from bribed gatekeepers to a military-run criminal enterprise called the "Cartel de los Soles."
- Military officers now control territories like commands and run drug, gold and weapons trafficking networks.
Source Said Military 'Run The Operation'
- Gelet recounts a source telling her years ago that the military don't just permit trafficking—they run it.
- She also describes narcotic parties where money is literally burned due to excess cash.