The Briefing What does Trump’s audacious attack on Venezuela mean for Europe?
Jan 5, 2026
Chris Chermak, a senior news editor and geopolitical analyst, discusses Trump's foreign policy towards Venezuela, emphasizing a strategy focusing on oil interests over democracy. Garana Gerjic, a security correspondent, reveals how this situation strains European trust and complicates upcoming security discussions in Paris. Laura Kramer updates on the recent fire in Crans-Montana, detailing victim identifications. Isabel Hilton offers insights on China's economic positioning as it navigates challenges heading into 2026.
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America-First Foreign Policy Signal
- Donald Trump’s Venezuela action signals a foreign policy driven by American national-security and commercial interests rather than promoting democracy.
- Chris Chermak warns this prioritises pliable regimes and protects right-wing authoritarians while threatening left-wing or non-aligned governments.
Europe’s Diplomatic Dilemma
- European governments now face a hard choice between condemning US actions and keeping Washington engaged on issues like Ukraine.
- Garana Gerjic says this strains transatlantic trust and challenges the rules-based order.
Push Concrete Support For Ukraine
- European conveners must prioritise tangible security guarantees and weapons supply for Ukraine amid US unpredictability.
- Garana stresses accelerating meaningful support to offset possible reduced US attention.