Reveal What Trump’s Venezuela Attack Means for the World
23 snips
Jan 6, 2026 
Emma Ashford, a Foreign Policy magazine columnist and senior fellow at the Stimson Center, dives into the recent U.S. military operation to capture Nicolás Maduro. She discusses the aggressive tactics of the Trump administration, coining it the 'Donroe Doctrine.' Ashford highlights international reactions, the potential for destabilization in the region, and the long-term implications for Venezuelan oil and democracy. She also explores the challenges of Venezuelan governance and the risks of increased migration due to instability.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Unprecedented Snatch-And-Grab
- Emma Ashford was surprised by the Maduro capture because the U.S. rarely seizes foreign leaders directly.
- She called the operation shocking militarily but modest in political aims: remove Maduro and work with existing Venezuelan institutions.
Take Threats Of Force Seriously
- Monitor escalatory rhetoric; brinksmanship may lead to unexpected military action.
- Treat threats seriously instead of assuming the administration will always back down.
From Negotiation To Coercion
- The administration first tried negotiations and then dialed up pressure with indictments, naval buildups, and strikes.
- When Maduro refused to leave voluntarily, the U.S. escalated to a forcible removal after months of coercion.
