Geopolitical Economy Report Blatant colonialism: Trump says USA will 'run' Venezuela and take its oil
Jan 6, 2026
The discussion revolves around Donald Trump's declaration to 'run' Venezuela and take its oil, highlighting the U.S. military's aggressive actions. Trump's remarks about exploiting infrastructure and resources raise eyebrows. Historical context is provided, detailing past U.S. interventions and coup attempts. The podcast critiques the rebranding of the Monroe Doctrine as a means of asserting dominance. It also addresses the implications for other Latin American countries and the overarching theme of imperial ambitions.
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Occupation Framed As Resource Grab
- Donald Trump openly framed the Venezuela operation as about seizing and profiting from oil and resources.
- Ben Norton interprets this as explicit imperialism rather than a drug or democracy pretext.
Explicit Call To Govern Venezuela
- Trump declared the U.S. would 'run' Venezuela and appoint administrators from his team.
- Norton calls this explicit colonial governance, likening it to 19th-century imperialism.
Long-Term Occupation Funded By Oil
- Trump implied the U.S. might administer Venezuela for years funded by the country's oil.
- Norton emphasizes this normalizes a long-term colonial occupation paid for by plundered resources.
