Wisdom of Crowds Venezuela and Its Consequences
Jan 9, 2026
The discussion dives deep into the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, exploring the tension between power and morality. Shadi and Damir debate the implications of foreign policy decisions and the risk of chaos following military action. They question whether U.S. interests prioritize oil over democracy and examine the role of shared values in alliances. Concerns arise about the legality of abducting leaders and the potential impact on global powers like China and Russia. The conversation wraps up with reflections on American resilience amid political fractures.
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Values Should Guide Post-Intervention Plans
- Shadi Hamid worries the U.S. intervention in Venezuela prioritizes power over democracy and values.
- He urged the U.S. should press for elections and political accountability after intervening.
Decapitation Strikes Create Long-Term Obligations
- Damir Marusic opposes the decapitation strike and argues intervention creates obligations and messy aftermaths.
- He warns removing Maduro forces choices about occupation, arrests, or chaos that make intervention a bad policy.
Trump May Break It And Walk Away
- Damir says Trump will likely break things and walk away rather than take responsibility for repairing them.
- He believes Trump's amoral approach may prevent deep U.S. commitments after intervention.
