American Prestige AP x NonZero - Venezuela, China, and Trump’s Incoherence
Dec 12, 2025
Robert Wright, the insightful host of the NonZero podcast, joins the discussion on U.S. foreign policy and its recent incoherence. They delve into Trump's erratic approach, particularly regarding Venezuela, and question whether current strategists are adequately addressing the rise of China. The conversation also touches on the implications of chip export policies and the potential risks of AI development. Wright highlights the challenges of U.S. supply chains and cautions against ignoring the geopolitical ramifications of technological advancements.
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Tanker Seizure As Trumpian Policing
- Robert Wright recounts Trump's seizure of a Venezuelan tanker as a less deadly but likely illegal act compared with earlier bombings.
- He frames it as a mild improvement but emblematic of a plundering approach to the hemisphere.
Trump's Foreign Policy Is Incoherent
- Robert Wright argues Trump's foreign policy lacks coherence and mixes restraint rhetoric with interventionist actions like seizing a Venezuelan tanker.
- The inconsistency undermines any clear strategy and confuses allies and officials inside his administration.
Chip Controls Alter Taiwan Deterrence
- Relaxing chip export controls alters deterrence around Taiwan by removing mutual dependence on Taiwanese fabs.
- That shift may raise incentives for aggression because losing factories would no longer be as punitive.
