Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast Why Is The U.S. Striking Venezuela? with Benjamin Gedan
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Nov 11, 2025 Benjamin Gedan, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center and former South America director on the National Security Council, discusses the complexities of U.S. military actions against Venezuela. He critiques the legal basis for recent strikes and warns against a large-scale military commitment, highlighting the precarious humanitarian situation. Gedan also delves into Venezuela’s economic decline, drug trafficking issues, and the impact of sanctions on civilians, as well as regional perceptions of U.S. intervention.
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Unprecedented Strikes Signal Broader Escalation
- The U.S. has carried out airstrikes on boats off Venezuela with little legal rationale.
- This escalation may signal preparations for a larger military pressure campaign rather than pure counter-narcotics.
Cartel Claims Lack Clear Structure
- The Trump administration framed parts of Venezuela as organized crime, but evidence for a formal
Prefer Law Enforcement Over Military Action
- Use established law enforcement partnerships and Coast Guard interdictions for counter-narcotics.
- Prioritize seizures, prosecutions, and regional cooperation over military strikes.
