One Decision Trump's Venezuela Raid. A Warning for Europe
Jan 8, 2026
Philip Gordon, a former U.S. National Security Advisor, shares his insights on the Trump administration's military involvement in Venezuela and its implications for global politics. He discusses the lack of a credible Plan B following aggressive U.S. moves and critiques Europe's weak responses, highlighting a shift from a rules-based order to a spheres of influence approach. Gordon warns about America's growing public fatigue with global leadership and suggests Europe must strengthen its defense and unity to effectively engage in international matters.
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Geopolitics Over Legal Justification
- Philip Gordon argues Trump's Venezuela action is driven by domination and oil interests rather than clear legal justification.
- The administration used varied rationales but ultimately seeks regional dominance and benefits for U.S. oil companies.
No Clear Plan Beyond The Raid
- Gordon and Ben Wallace warn the administration lacks a credible Plan B if regime-change efforts fail in Venezuela.
- They argue Trump's decisions often lack detailed follow-through and risk escalation to costly occupation.
From Rules To Spheres Of Influence
- Sir Ben Wallace and Philip Gordon say the U.S. is shifting from a rules-based order toward spheres of influence.
- They compare Trump's worldview to Putin's and Xi's, marking a break with post-1945 Western norms.
