The Globalist Venezuela opens up its oil industry. Plus: a look ahead at Costa Rica’s presidential elections
Jan 30, 2026
Terry Stiasny, political journalist and author, offers concise international political takes. Matt Wolfe, theatre critic at the International New York Times, reviews stage highlights. Andrew Thompson, Latin America specialist, breaks down Venezuela’s move to open oil to foreign firms and previews Costa Rica’s presidential contest. They also touch on Cuba, regional political shifts and theatre standouts in short, lively segments.
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Venezuela's Oil Opening Faces Big Hurdles
- The Venezuelan interim government opened oil to foreign investors to boost growth but faces deep political and infrastructural risks.
- Long-term investment needs and past expropriations make many companies wary despite legal changes.
US Pressure Over Regime Change In Cuba
- The Trump administration aims to squeeze Havana economically to provoke political change rather than occupy or govern Cuba.
- Washington prefers pressure and sanctions to risky military interventions in the region.
US Strategy Prioritises Stability Over Democracy
- US National Security Strategy prioritises cooperation on crime, migration and finance over democracy promotion in Latin America.
- The strategy signals use of sanctions and limited strikes rather than large-scale occupations.
