Swamp Notes What Trump wants from Venezuela
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Oct 31, 2025 James Story, the former top U.S. diplomat to Venezuela, and Michael Stott, Financial Times Latin America editor, dive into the implications of U.S. military actions near Venezuela. They discuss the role of military buildup in U.S. strategy against Nicolás Maduro and why regime change is a priority. The duo examines the Venezuelan military's capabilities and the complexities of opposition leadership. They also speculate on Trump's approach—whether he will escalate tensions or adopt a more cautious stance in the face of potential backlash.
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Military Buildup Implies Broader Options
- The carrier strike group and heavy air assets signal options beyond counter-narcotics against Venezuela.
- James V. Story says this deployment shows the administration is considering wider measures toward Maduro.
Regime Removal Is The Explicit Objective
- The administration aims to remove Maduro by exile, extradition, or other means according to Story.
- He argues the goal is to convince someone close to Maduro to facilitate his exit from power.
Domestic Politics Drive Venezuela Focus
- Venezuela matters to Trump because migration and drugs are central to his domestic political message.
- Michael Stott notes Trump also wants to finish unfinished business from his first term over Maduro.