The Expat Money Show - With Mikkel Thorup

388: Trump Arrests Maduro: What Does It Mean For Latin America?

Jan 7, 2026
Guest
Marc Clair
Marc Clair, a co-host and commentator on geopolitics, joins the discussion on the significant arrest of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. They delve into the implications for international law and regional politics, arguing that this event isn't a typical regime change. The duo speculates on U.S. motives, the role of China and Cuba, and potential negotiations moving forward. They also examine the impact on Venezuelan diaspora and the shift towards pro-business reforms in Latin America, all while contrasting this situation with past U.S. interventions.
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INSIGHT

U.S. Power Play Sets New Precedent

  • The U.S. conducted a secret Delta Force capture of Nicolás Maduro, signaling a major power play in the hemisphere.
  • Marc Clair and Mikkel Thorup argue this sets a global precedent that the U.S. may bypass international law when it chooses.
ANECDOTE

Maduro Snatched At Night In Pajamas

  • Mikkel describes Maduro being taken in pajamas after a middle-of-the-night raid and notes an AI-generated fake photo circulated.
  • He also reports the Chinese envoy had met Maduro hours earlier and was apparently not warned.
INSIGHT

The 'Donroe Doctrine' Explained

  • Marc frames this as Trump’s 'Donroe Doctrine' — reasserting U.S. dominance in the Americas.
  • The hosts see the arrest as part of a broader plan to secure a Western hemisphere sphere of influence.
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