The Bunker – News without the nonsense The Year of the Wars – Start Your Week with Rafael Behr and Jacob Jarvis
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Jan 5, 2026 Rafael Behr, a seasoned Guardian columnist and political commentator, joins Jacob Jarvis to dissect the current geopolitical turmoil. They delve into Trump's controversial interventions in Venezuela, exploring the mix of oil interests, theatrical politics, and the implications for other global powers. Behr critiques Keir Starmer's cautious political maneuvering and speculates on its consequences for Labour. The conversation also touches on the grim stalemate in Gaza and offers a glimmer of hope for upcoming electoral shifts in 2026.
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Brazenness Amplifies Historical Patterns
- Rafael Behr says US meddling in Latin America is historically common but the brazenness of kidnapping a head of state feels extraordinary.
- He argues Trump's spectacle-style presentation amplifies the perceived unprecedented nature of the act.
Medal Of Spectacle: Power As Performance
- Rafael Behr sees Trump's actions as performance aimed at projecting power and instilling fear across the region.
- He notes Trump explicitly framed the operation to show global reach and US military superiority.
Venezuela’s Removal Upsets Global Balances
- Rafael Behr highlights Venezuela's ties to Russia, China and Iran due to sanctions and isolation.
- He warns that removing such a regime sends strategic shockwaves to those powers and alters energy flows.