Why, America? with Leeja Miller What Is Happening with Venezuela & The US? EXPLAINER
Sep 8, 2025
Venezuelan migrants are suffering under the weight of harsh U.S. policies, revealing the human cost of political decisions. The rise of the Tren de Aragua cartel adds layers of fear and stigmatization for immigrants in the U.S. Examining the long tumultuous history of Venezuelan politics, the role of U.S. intervention raises complex questions about legality and morality. The podcast also critiques the xenophobia interconnected with drug demand, highlighting how misconceptions about immigrants overshadow their contributions to society.
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Torture Enabled By Terror Labels
- Leeja Miller describes systemic mistreatment of Venezuelan migrants including shackling, beatings, and transfer to CICOT.
- She argues labeling people terrorists enables torture and dehumanization that bypasses legal protections.
Military Buildup Signals Political Intent
- The Trump administration has massively increased military presence in the Caribbean and escalated pressure on Venezuela.
- Miller connects this buildup to a broader strategy of targeting Venezuelan migrants and political pressure on Maduro.
Labels Simplify Complex Corruption
- The U.S. labels like 'Cartel of the Suns' simplify complex corruption into a catchy enemy narrative.
- Miller notes the label likely masks informal networks and exaggerates hierarchical cartel structures.