Alejandro Velasco

In this discussion, Alejandro Velasco, an Associate Professor at NYU specializing in Latin American studies, sheds light on the alarming U.S. military buildup near Venezuela. He unpacks how this escalation feels unique compared to past interventions and tackles the political motives behind Trump's 'narco-terrorism' rhetoric. Velasco also explores the implications of possible regime changes and highlights the resilience of everyday Venezuelans amid growing tensions. His insights provide a nuanced understanding of a potentially escalating conflict.

Alejandro Velasco, an associate professor of history at NYU, sheds light on Venezuela's dramatic decline from a prosperous oil-rich nation to a site of humanitarian crisis. He explores the legacies of iconic leaders Simón Bolívar and Hugo Chávez, examining how Chávez used Bolívar's heritage to gain public support. Velasco discusses the cultural and political ramifications of their leadership styles and how historical events, including failed coups, have shaped Venezuela's tumultuous politics, ultimately leading to mass emigration and widespread poverty.