Coffee House Shots Regime change in Caracas ... but not Westminster
9 snips
Jan 5, 2026 
Tim Shipman, a political journalist for The Spectator, dives into the aftermath of a successful U.S. operation to oust Nicolas Maduro. He discusses the dilemma facing the Labour Party about how to respond to this action—debating international norms versus celebrating the end of a corrupt regime. The conversation shifts to domestic politics, with Labour prioritizing the cost of living crisis while navigating internal divisions. Shipman also speculates on Venezuela's future governance and the broader geopolitical implications for global energy markets.
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Left Faces Dilemma Over US Operation
- The US removal of Nicolás Maduro exposes a deep split for Labour between opposing intervention and celebrating regime change.
- Tim Shipman notes most European leaders have hedged their response due to reliance on US security and Trump's unpredictability.
Hedging Reflects Legal And Strategic Caution
- The British government has avoided a clear stance because legal advisers and politics push it to hedge.
- Tim Shipman compares this to past UK reticence when US actions risked jeopardising intelligence and defence ties.
Westminster's Limited Interest In Venezuela
- Westminster has historically paid little attention to South America, limiting domestic political stakes.
- Tim Shipman says the UK lacks leverage over the US and fears setting precedents that could affect Europe.
