One Decision In Brief: Why Trump Is Targeting Venezuela
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Oct 28, 2025 The discussion kicks off with the U.S. deploying an aircraft carrier near Venezuela, raising questions about regime change versus drug interdiction. The hosts delve into the legal controversies surrounding U.S. tactics and the significant role of Maduro’s ties with Russia and China. They explore the implications of Argentina's surprising elections, highlighting Trump’s backing of President Javier Milei's economic policies. Amidst political pressures, how secure is Milei's position? Tune in for a fascinating look at the geopolitics shaping Latin America!
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Regime Change Drives Venezuela Pressure
- The Trump administration appears to be escalating pressure to remove Nicolás Maduro, not just curb drug trafficking.
- Sir Richard Dearlove says the move mixes military pressure with political aims to make Maduro's position untenable.
Lethal Interdictions Replace Stop-And-Search
- The administration frames actions as anti-drug interdiction but is using lethal force at sea rather than standard stop-and-search.
- Dearlove notes the UN criticized these operations as extrajudicial killings and compares them to past US practices.
Venezuela As A Transit Hub
- Venezuela functions largely as a transit and trans-shipment hub rather than a prime fentanyl producer.
- Dearlove emphasizes complex supply chains and uncertainty over ultimate destinations for trafficked drugs.