The LRB Podcast On Politics: Venezuela and the Trump Doctrine
40 snips
Jan 14, 2026 
Historian Greg Grandin, noted for his work on US-Latin America relations, joins to dissect the recent US seizure of Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. He explores the surprising yet familiar patterns of US intervention, revealing Trump's emphasis on migration and oil rather than democracy. Grandin discusses the Monroe Doctrine's legacy and how Trump's approach mirrors historical hegemony, ultimately questioning the effectiveness of such military maneuvers in achieving lasting power. He links Trump's aggressive foreign policy to domestic strategies, painting a complex picture of American influence.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Naked, Rapid Exercise Of Power
- The US raid on Maduro marked a naked, rapid exercise of power that broke international law norms.
- Trump justified it with migration, drugs and oil rather than democracy, revealing transactional motives.
State Left Intact After Capture
- The US left much of the Venezuelan state intact after capturing Maduro, opting not to debathify like in Iraq.
- That pragmatic choice suggests a transactional approach rather than comprehensive nation-building.
Machado Was Too Divisive
- The Trump team considered reinstating María Corina Machado but found her divisive and she had fled the country.
- Marco Rubio's staff reportedly influenced decisions around opposition leadership choices.
