If You're Listening Trump’s playbook for Nicolás Maduro and Venezuela
17 snips
Jan 5, 2026 The discussion kicks off with Trump's bold claim of capturing Nicolás Maduro, igniting debates on legality and the implications of such actions. A fascinating parallel to The Dark Knight's extrajudicial tactics unfolds, exploring the notion of the U.S. 'yoinking' foreign leaders. Historical comparisons to Noriega's case highlight past U.S. interventions and their consequences. The hosts speculate on Venezuela's future, weighing diplomatic solutions against chaos, while questioning new norms in international law that may emerge from these actions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Batman-Style Extradition Scene
- Cara Jensen-McKinnon compares the Maduro capture to Batman's Lau extraction from The Dark Knight.
- The hosts use the film scene to illustrate how a covert foreign seizure might mirror real-world US actions.
Noriega Set A Precedent
- Matt Bevan recounts Manuel Noriega's indictment and US shift from ally to target.
- The Noriega case set a legal and practical playbook for charging and removing a sitting foreign leader.
Spadafora’s Murder Sparked Outrage
- The episode recounts Hugo Spadafora's brutal murder found in a US mailbag near Costa Rica.
- Hosts link the killing to public outrage that turned US policy against Noriega.