The Team House WTF are we Actually Doing in Venezuela? | EYES ON GEOPOLITICS
Dec 15, 2025
Mick Mulroy, a former U.S. intelligence and special ops professional, dives into Venezuela's complex landscape and the implications of U.S. sanctions against Maduro. He discusses the legitimacy of Maria Corina Machado as a potential leader and the dangers of a power vacuum if Maduro exits. The talk explores the U.S. military's Caribbean posture and the likelihood of targeted strikes versus full invasion. Mulroy also emphasizes the need for Europe’s military independence and the risks posed by U.S.-China tech transfers, all while keeping an eye on Arctic strategy.
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Oil Dilution Is Venezuela's Vulnerability
- Venezuela's oil is exceptionally heavy and requires chemical dilution to produce and export.
- Cutting those dilution shipments can choke Maduro's revenue and pressure his regime to change.
Machado's Protected Exit And Symbolic Value
- Maria Corina Machado was extracted from Venezuela and is now in Oslo, giving the opposition a legitimate rallying leader.
- Mick Mulroy described press reports that intelligence actors protected and exfiltrated her so she can openly lead abroad.
Prefer Targeted Strikes Over Full Invasions
- Avoid large-scale ground invasions when targeted air options can achieve objectives more safely.
- Use precise strikes and interdictions to degrade drug and oil trafficking infrastructure before risking ground forces.
