Politics Weekly UK Is Starmer’s silence on Venezuela worth it?
Jan 5, 2026
Pippa and Kiran dive into the US operation capturing Nicolás Maduro and the ensuing global reactions. They explore Trump's historical motivations behind such actions, highlighting the complexities of drug and oil interests. Starmer's silence raises questions about his diplomatic balancing act and its impact domestically. The discussion also touches on the varied reactions from UK political parties and what the future holds for Starmer as he navigates key issues like the cost of living and upcoming local elections. A fascinating look at the intersection of global and local politics!
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Morning Shock Of The Raid
- Kieran Stacey describes his chilly return to Westminster and catching the morning news.
- He recalls seeing explosions in Caracas and realising the US operation was unfolding.
Trump Turned Threats Into Action
- The US operation in Venezuela was shocking mainly because Trump followed through on his threats.
- The raid blended security claims with clear economic and geopolitical interests around oil and influence.
Limits Of Venezuelan Oil Payoff
- The operation reflects a long history of US intervention in Latin America but also a shift given Trump's unpredictable style.
- Venezuelan oil is vast but hard to exploit, so immediate economic gains are unlikely.