I'll confess to not knowing enough about Venezuela or Maduro to really have a view, but I will now research it.
I've heard he's like another Chavez, but haven't digged into that yet.
Don’t worry, just read PB, the PB experts (how many people profess to know the inner workings of Trumps mind after all) are now going to pivot onto Maduro, Venezuela and its oilfields.
Maduro is Chavez 2.0 - without the subtly.
His “victory” in the last election was basically what Trump was trying to achieve the time he lost.
You’d have thought he & Trump would have been friends - shared interests on corruption, electoral fraud, attacking opponents with the powers of the state etc…
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
They captured Noriega in Panama but that was a full ground invasion.
I suppose the alternative might be a more "amenable" regime which is more likely to be compliant with or to Washington and for example cut ties with Russia, China and Cuba.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
I'll confess to not knowing enough about Venezuela or Maduro to really have a view, but I will now research it.
I've heard he's like another Chavez, but haven't digged into that yet.
Don’t worry, just read PB, the PB experts (how many people profess to know the inner workings of Trumps mind after all) are now going to pivot onto Maduro, Venezuela and its oilfields.
Maduro is Chavez 2.0 - without the subtly.
His “victory” in the last election was basically what Trump was trying to achieve the time he lost.
You’d have thought he & Trump would have been friends - shared interests on corruption, electoral fraud, attacking opponents with the powers of the state etc…
I doubt whether Mr Trump has any real friends.
Good morning, everyone.
You mean Gianni Infantino is not for real? Say it isn't so ...
Apparently the US suffered zero casualties. That would seem to be hard to achieve without help from inside the Presidential Palace, or simply zero will to resist.
That it all happened so quickly, does suggest there were at least a whole load of CIA well imbedded inside the palace.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
They captured Noriega in Panama but that was a full ground invasion.
I suppose the alternative might be a more "amenable" regime which is more likely to be compliant with or to Washington and for example cut ties with Russia, China and Cuba.
We'll see...
I remember about ten years ago the Chinese were buying huge amounts of Bolivars and any gov paper they could get. They knew it was worthless but it gave them huge influence - will be interesting to see how they react.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
If Rodriguez is more intelligent, she’d be more inclined to cut a deal with the USA.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
That's probably the optimal outcome if it was the scenario. That would wreck the remaining Chavista regime's credbility and leave the field clear for their final removal.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
If Rodriguez is more intelligent, she’d be more inclined to cut a deal with the USA.
Apparently a British politician whose initials are the same as National Front features in the Epstein Files an impressive 18 times (no details and probably nothing to worry about). You didn't see that on GBNews or the BBC, so hopefully Trump and Whisky Pete bombing the shit out of Caracus ensures it never will. Phew! That was a close one.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
That's probably the optimal outcome if it was the scenario. That would wreck the remaining Chavista regime's credbility and leave the field clear for their final removal.
But it seems a bit farfetched.
Rubio certainly believes that they will put Maduro on trial in the US. If Maduro left willingly he would have taken his money to Russia, or a friendly country with less dangerous apartment building windows.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Either way it's the biggest US foreign policy 'win' in decades and significantly increases Trump's prestige.
If Madura is captured, then Trump’s SMO is ahead of schedule.
Yes, got one over on him there. Bragging rights next time they meet.
Which is exactly the kind of crude bullshit that Trump goes for…
It is. There's no geopolitical or economic rationale driving Trump. There's no 'doctrine'. Pundits find this difficult to accept but it's true. He wants to use his toys. Dominate the news. Look big. That's it.
Dominate the news without the word Epstein , you mean.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Either way it's the biggest US foreign policy 'win' in decades and significantly increases Trump's prestige.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Either way it's the biggest US foreign policy 'win' in decades and significantly increases Trump's prestige.
I think it's a little bit early to be saying that.
Apparently a British politician whose initials are the same as National Front features in the Epstein Files an impressive 18 times (no details and probably nothing to worry about). You didn't see that on GBNews or the BBC, so hopefully Trump and Whisky Pete bombing the shit out of Caracus ensures it never will. Phew! That was a close one.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Either way it's the biggest US foreign policy 'win' in decades and significantly increases Trump's prestige.
Not if the Venezuelan military ensures the regime continues via Rodriguez or similar.
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
Either way it's the biggest US foreign policy 'win' in decades and significantly increases Trump's prestige.
I think it's a little bit early to be saying that.
It's never too early for @williamglenn pro-Trump hyperbole.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
Incidentally when you refer to 'saner minds in the US administration' I can only admire your optimism.
If you simply steal Maduro, the next in line in his party will try and take over.
Even Trump can join those dots
From an American point of view, Rodriguez would definitely be the greater of two evils. Maduro is a rather stupid and greedy clown who held power because it his humble background meant it suited others to make him the figurehead of the regime, while it suited him to make lots of money while there.
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
Mmm. I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job. A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference. No casualties and the President taken alive? Pull the other one.
That's probably the optimal outcome if it was the scenario. That would wreck the remaining Chavista regime's credbility and leave the field clear for their final removal.
Apparently a British politician whose initials are the same as National Front features in the Epstein Files an impressive 18 times (no details and probably nothing to worry about). You didn't see that on GBNews or the BBC, so hopefully Trump and Whisky Pete bombing the shit out of Caracus ensures it never will. Phew! That was a close one.
One wonders which media mogul was sitting on the story for so long, and what benefits such pressure might have given him.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
If recent decades are anything to go by we will continue to self-sabotage by treating every international law as an actual rule rather than a guideline as 'inspiration' to the rest of the world that does as it pleases, while following along with whatever the US wants.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
If you are China - or Russia for that matter - I’d get you see no harm in ramping up action towards Taiwan or Russia.
Basically, the US has decided it can do want it want, and the international rule book may as well not exist anymore.
I don’t think that the US, Russia, or China have ever operated, except on the basis that they can do what they want, subject to the military capability of those that they go up against.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
We have an interest in the continuation of the Maduro regime?
If your answer is that it's against our interests because we have an interest in upholding 'international law', how can you justify the bombing of Belgrade?
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
We have no dog in this fight.
Doesn't it affect Guyana, Commonwealth member and cricket-playing nation? The Venezuelan Government was making unpleasant noises about new oilfields there.
If you are China - or Russia for that matter - I’d get you see no harm in ramping up action towards Taiwan or Russia.
Basically, the US has decided it can do want it want, and the international rule book may as well not exist anymore.
I don’t think that the US, Russia, or China have ever operated, except on the basis that they can do what they want, subject to the military capability of those that they go up against.
I have spoken with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and our Ambassador in Caracas. The EU is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela.
The EU has repeatedly stated that Mr Maduro lacks legitimacy and has defended a peaceful transition. Under all circumstances, the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be respected. We call for restraint.
The safety of EU citizens in the country is our top priority.
Surprised they did it on a weekend, going to really mess with Donald's golf commitments.
Something to do with the stock market? Perhaps some fucking genius with six monitors covered in graphs can opine.
Mrs Maduro was well known to have crazy amounts of shares in state utilities and other businesses. I’m sure transfer of these to, just as a joke obviously, young Trumps will ensure a nice retirement for them in Florida.
There will also be many speculators, I know a few, who bought Venezuelan assets at even less than a penny in the pound who will no doubt have been making donation pledges.
Iran had vast amounts of Venezuelan Bolivars too, in the low billions, so this will also please the US as influence is neutralised.
The American actions in Venezuela overnight are unorthodox and contrary to international law — but if they make China and Russia think twice, it may be a good thing.
I hope the Venezuelan people can now turn a new leaf without Maduro.
The American actions in Venezuela overnight are unorthodox and contrary to international law — but if they make China and Russia think twice, it may be a good thing.
I hope the Venezuelan people can now turn a new leaf without Maduro.
That's not how to get yourself as a regular on the Mar-a-Lago guest list.
If you are China - or Russia for that matter - I’d get you see no harm in ramping up action towards Taiwan or Russia.
Basically, the US has decided it can do want it want, and the international rule book may as well not exist anymore.
I don’t think that the US, Russia, or China have ever operated, except on the basis that they can do what they want, subject to the military capability of those that they go up against.
Nor did we, when we could!
For certain. Public international law is useful to have on one’s side, but it has never constrained the powerful.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
We have no dog in this fight.
Doesn't it affect Guyana, Commonwealth member and cricket-playing nation? The Venezuelan Government was making unpleasant noises about new oilfields there.
The Rest is Politics USA on the electoral prospects US mid-terms, and Democrat strategy. Better than their normal style, which is imo too "journalistic". There is a modicum of normal Scaramucci self-focus. https://www.youtube.com/@RestPoliticsUS
Washington Week with The Atlantic full episode, Jan. 2, 2026 Talking about the Trump Security Strategy. Imo they are still stuck inside the beltway, playing checkers in their imaginations. They still seem to me to be about 2 years out of date on what has happened to the USA. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI93p1IMJgo
(Hmmm. Incoming Youtube AI deepfake advert of Martin Lewis selling a scam, with a personal promise to make up my losses. Let's have more of those techbros and less evil regulation .. ahem.)
The American actions in Venezuela overnight are unorthodox and contrary to international law — but if they make China and Russia think twice, it may be a good thing.
I hope the Venezuelan people can now turn a new leaf without Maduro.
That's not how to get yourself as a regular on the Mar-a-Lago guest list.
Being a regular on the Mar-a-Lago guest list simply requires throwing a few $m into Trumps latest scam...
Sky News have just called up Tim Marshall. God they miss his knowledable insight. The presenter was so clueless and poorly researched was even getting the sex wrong of the Vice President.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
True. This morning's actions don't materially make the UK's position worse.
Contrary to your position, the UK as an open, middle ranking, somewhat prosperous country benefits from the rule of law internationally. If the rule of law is gone, it has to deal with the situation it finds itself in, but it doesn't have good cards to play right now, hence the continuing abusive relationship with the United States.
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
Sources in the Venezuela opposition tell Sky News that tonight’s operation to “capture” Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, was part of a “negotiated exit” between Maduro and the United States. https://x.com/sentdefender/status/2007391482341404938
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars
Noody other than Jezza thinks he was actually elected via a free and fair election.
If you are China - or Russia for that matter - I’d get you see no harm in ramping up action towards Taiwan or Russia.
Basically, the US has decided it can do want it want, and the international rule book may as well not exist anymore.
It's a total humiliation for Putin and a brutal demonstration that Russia is not a military peer of the US.
Indeed, Russia’s overseas adventures are quickly coming to a close, with the US and China both set to take advantage.
Their allies around the world now see that they can no longer provide security guarantees, thanks to Putin’s misadventures in Ukraine keeping the whole Russian military much closer to home.
Keir Starmer should condemn Trump’s illegal action in Venezuela. Maduro is a brutal and illegitimate dictator, but unlawful attacks like this make us all less safe. Trump is giving a green light to the likes of Putin and Xi to attack other countries with impunity.
I’m gradually becoming convinced that the documents that Trump is afraid of is details of his being a Cooperating Witness against Epstein.
Contrary to the movies, such informants are nearly always guilty (see Sonny Gravano), and doing it for a get out of jail card.
Such a deal would include a signed admission of guilt (by Trump, for whatever he did) and details of the crimes that he committed. Usually including interviews from the informant admitting the crimes they committed.
This would also explain why it hasn’t leaked already - such things are guarded to the highest degreee.
It's a possibility. It's becoming increasingly unlikely that Trump isn't heavily implicated, in any event.
Yes, Epstein isn't bringing down Trump. There's no smoking gun there.
There very likely is.
Epstein, along with a bunch of other shit, isn't bringing down Trump because the DOJ is staffed by his personal lawyers. Not a few of whom were involved in Epstein's original plea deal and coverup.
I think there's too much evidence from too many witnesses for that to stick forever. The corrupted DoJ will protect him for some time, which is a matter of influence and politics.
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
If you are China - or Russia for that matter - I’d get you see no harm in ramping up action towards Taiwan or Russia.
Basically, the US has decided it can do want it want, and the international rule book may as well not exist anymore.
The US decided that centuries ago.
Only deluded fools believe international rules are real things.
The only surprise is those who think that such US military adventures as we see today, are something that started with the current incumbent of the White House.
Keir Starmer should condemn Trump’s illegal action in Venezuela. Maduro is a brutal and illegitimate dictator, but unlawful attacks like this make us all less safe. Trump is giving a green light to the likes of Putin and Xi to attack other countries with impunity.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
True. This morning's actions don't materially make the UK's position worse.
Contrary to your position, the UK as an open, middle ranking, somewhat prosperous country benefits from the rule of law internationally. If the rule of law is gone, it has to deal with the situation it finds itself in, but it doesn't have good cards to play right now, hence the continuing abusive relationship with the United States.
The rule of law, internationally, hasn’t gone. It never was.
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
Keir Starmer should condemn Trump’s illegal action in Venezuela. Maduro is a brutal and illegitimate dictator, but unlawful attacks like this make us all less safe. Trump is giving a green light to the likes of Putin and Xi to attack other countries with impunity.
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
Putin has condemned the US action and capture of Maduro so the happiest man this morning is probably Zelensky, so it is good news on that front
I don't see an invasion of Venezuela. I see decapitation followed by a "Trump's pocket" regime, in traditional mid-20C banana republic style - but oil companies rather than banana companies. They want leverage against Canada.
Post-climate-change Italy is a new source of tropical fruit such as bananas, and olives are moving higher up the Alps.
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
I’m gradually becoming convinced that the documents that Trump is afraid of is details of his being a Cooperating Witness against Epstein.
Contrary to the movies, such informants are nearly always guilty (see Sonny Gravano), and doing it for a get out of jail card.
Such a deal would include a signed admission of guilt (by Trump, for whatever he did) and details of the crimes that he committed. Usually including interviews from the informant admitting the crimes they committed.
This would also explain why it hasn’t leaked already - such things are guarded to the highest degreee.
It's a possibility. It's becoming increasingly unlikely that Trump isn't heavily implicated, in any event.
Yes, Epstein isn't bringing down Trump. There's no smoking gun there.
There very likely is.
Epstein, along with a bunch of other shit, isn't bringing down Trump because the DOJ is staffed by his personal lawyers. Not a few of whom were involved in Epstein's original plea deal and coverup.
I think there's too much evidence from too many witnesses for that to stick forever. The corrupted DoJ will protect him for some time, which is a matter of influence and politics.
But there are plenty of other directions.
Forever is a long time.
The rest of his term is only a few years, and there's a decent he'll cheat justice by karking it before anyone can get him into a courtroom.
So where does this leave us? (I.e the UK). Europe has been shown to have been totally irrelevant, so I guess our only option is to go along with the US..
It leaves us seriously adrift. We've cut our ties with Europe and are stuck in a performative alliance with a state acting against our interests.
Trump's cowardice against Putin is against our interests.
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
Neither Britain or the EU recognised Maduro as the legitimate President of Venezuela, judging recent elections to have been a sham. If this action had been taken by any other US President I expect we would be supportive.
The main source of our disquiet would be to worry about where Trump would next direct US military power, given his statements about Greenland in particular.
No great fan of Maduro but he was elected and about half the people of Venezuela probably still support him.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
Putin has condemned the US action and capture of Maduro so the happiest man this morning is probably Zelensky, so it is good news on that front
I don't see an invasion of Venezuela. I see decapitation followed by a "Trump's pocket" regime, in traditional mid-20C banana republic style - but oil companies. They want leverage against Canada.
Comments
There's a madman loose aboot the hoose.....
That would have looked a bit awkward next to Trumps plan to hand over the Donbas to his mate Putin.
I suppose the alternative might be a more "amenable" regime which is more likely to be compliant with or to Washington and for example cut ties with Russia, China and Cuba.
We'll see...
Rodriguez is smart, well connected politically and economically and totally amoral. There have even been allegations that Maduro is solely a cipher for her rule along with her brother (the President of the National Assembly). She would be an altogether more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile if the opposition were to take power on the back of American strikes however loathed the Chavistas are (and it's pretty clear they are) their government will be tainted from the off. That's hardly a recipe for stability.
On top of that, does anyone think the Unquiet Don will be willing to help rebuild Venezuela? Certainly not without highly lucrative deals for himself and his backers which will not enrich the Venezuelans. Meanwhile, the lights keep going off and food shortages remain chronic, partly due to disastrous inflation. Those problems aren't going away any time soon without massive aid programmes.
https://x.com/presssec/status/2007382016321364308
Press conference at 11am in Florida, which will be 16:00 UTC.
‘ Venezuela has the world’s largest oil reserves — and that’s no coincidence.
This is naked U.S. imperialism: an illegal assault on Caracas aimed at overthrowing a sovereign government and plundering its resources.
Starmer’s Labour government must condemn this unequivocally.
Solidarity with the Venezuelan people 🇻🇪’
https://x.com/zarahsultana/status/2007385874766483915?s=61
I mean it's a wild theory, but this sounds like an inside job.
A coup d'etat under the guise of US interference.
No casualties and the President taken alive?
Pull the other one.
Two of the best young players around.
Gian Van Veen and Luke the Nuke,
Game on
But it seems a bit farfetched.
https://x.com/BRICSinfo/status/2007293252089815070
JUST IN: 🇨🇳🇻🇪 Chinese officials arrive in Venezuela for talks with President Nicolás Maduro.
I can't see the Chinese being happy...
Don't forget the USA has a decent track record in South and Central America of removing bad people and replacing them with even worse people.
Basically, the US has decided it can do want it want, and the international rule book may as well not exist anymore.
Only deluded fools believe international rules are real things.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natalie_Fleet
Not sure how this morning's actions affect our interests either way?
If your answer is that it's against our interests because we have an interest in upholding 'international law', how can you justify the bombing of Belgrade?
Nor did we, when we could!
I have spoken with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and our Ambassador in Caracas. The EU is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela.
The EU has repeatedly stated that Mr Maduro lacks legitimacy and has defended a peaceful transition. Under all circumstances, the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be respected. We call for restraint.
The safety of EU citizens in the country is our top priority.
There will also be many speculators, I know a few, who bought Venezuelan assets at even less than a penny in the pound who will no doubt have been making donation pledges.
Iran had vast amounts of Venezuelan Bolivars too, in the low billions, so this will also please the US as influence is neutralised.
Tim Pusey wanted the nickname ‘magnet’, it was not allowed.
Previous US admins have simply used the UN as a tool to legitimise their actions.
Donald J. Trump •
@realDonaldTrump
Be prepared, there is a small chance
that our horrendous leadership
could unknowingly lead us into
World War Ill.
https://x.com/Nigel_Farage/status/2007405775933845858
The American actions in Venezuela overnight are unorthodox and contrary to international law — but if they make China and Russia think twice, it may be a good thing.
I hope the Venezuelan people can now turn a new leaf without Maduro.
https://x.com/SkyNews/status/2007408476318728386
Where did they buy their tanks from, Temu?
I mean, WT actual F?
A couple of interesting listens.
The Rest is Politics USA on the electoral prospects US mid-terms, and Democrat strategy. Better than their normal style, which is imo too "journalistic". There is a modicum of normal Scaramucci self-focus.
https://www.youtube.com/@RestPoliticsUS
Washington Week with The Atlantic full episode, Jan. 2, 2026
Talking about the Trump Security Strategy. Imo they are still stuck inside the beltway, playing checkers in their imaginations. They still seem to me to be about 2 years out of date on what has happened to the USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI93p1IMJgo
(Hmmm. Incoming Youtube AI deepfake advert of Martin Lewis selling a scam, with a personal promise to make up my losses. Let's have more of those techbros and less evil regulation .. ahem.)
A reprise is currently happening around the takeover of Time-Warner, which controls CNN.
(I think that's about right.)
Contrary to your position, the UK as an open, middle ranking, somewhat prosperous country benefits from the rule of law internationally. If the rule of law is gone, it has to deal with the situation it finds itself in, but it doesn't have good cards to play right now, hence the continuing abusive relationship with the United States.
Not sure if this invasion of Venezuela will be that popular with the US voters and even some of his MAGA base either given Trump promised not to get involved in more wars.
At least one GOP US Senator has already questioned why the action was taken without support from Congress
https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/venezuela-strikes/card/republican-senator-questions-trump-s-authority-to-attack-1id3H6iGmCCeGHot6r6G
Putin has condemned the US action and capture of Maduro so the happiest man this morning is probably Zelensky, so it is good news on that front
https://x.com/sentdefender/status/2007391482341404938
Their allies around the world now see that they can no longer provide security guarantees, thanks to Putin’s misadventures in Ukraine keeping the whole Russian military much closer to home.
@anneapplebaum.bsky.social
Remember that there is a legitimately elected president of Venezuela: Edmundo Gonzalez. He won the election in 2024.
https://bsky.app/profile/anneapplebaum.bsky.social/post/3mbja2wffos2h
https://x.com/EdwardJDavey/status/2007415070062707192?s=20
But there are plenty of other directions.
It’s been going on pretty much since 1776.
Double score if he can sh!t on Starmer and Trump in the same sentence.
Post-climate-change Italy is a new source of tropical fruit such as bananas, and olives are moving higher up the Alps.
The rest of his term is only a few years, and there's a decent he'll cheat justice by karking it before anyone can get him into a courtroom.
The main source of our disquiet would be to worry about where Trump would next direct US military power, given his statements about Greenland in particular.