Trump Attacks Venezuela - January 5, 2026 - young-turks Recap

Podcast: young-turks

Published: 2026-01-06

Duration: 2 hr 43 min

Guests: Jordan Ewell, Zachary Carbell

Summary

The U.S. has taken control of Venezuela following a military operation that captured Nicolas Maduro, with Trump asserting claims over the country's oil resources. The episode examines the geopolitical implications, potential motivations, and international reactions to the intervention.

What Happened

Donald Trump's administration has intensified its foreign policy stance by conducting airstrikes on Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, who was brought to the U.S. on drug trafficking charges. Trump declared that the United States is now in charge of Venezuela, openly stating intentions to exploit the country's vast oil reserves, which are the largest in the world.

Maria Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, has not gained Trump's support due to her unpopularity, as evidenced by a poll showing 91% of Venezuelans view her unfavorably. Meanwhile, Delcy Rodriguez, the acting leader of Venezuela, has condemned the U.S. intervention and called for Maduro's release.

The episode delves into the implications of this intervention, drawing parallels with past U.S. regime change operations, such as those in Panama and Grenada, often justified by anti-communist sentiments. There is skepticism about the success of the operation, with concerns about potential insurgency and the complexity of governing Venezuela post-Maduro.

The geopolitical ramifications extend beyond Latin America, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu celebrating the regime change, viewing it as a return to alignment with the American axis and strengthening ties with Israel. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee supported the overthrow, citing Hezbollah's activity in Venezuela as a justification.

The episode discusses the motivations behind the U.S. intervention, highlighting Wall Street and corporate interests eager to invest in Venezuela's energy sector. Trump's actions are seen as a means to distract from domestic issues while serving donor interests, with parallels drawn to previous conflicts involving oil-rich countries.

Cenk Uygur and Jordan Ewell criticize the media's portrayal of the situation, noting the lack of coverage on dissenting Venezuelan voices, and question the legality and morality of the U.S. actions. They also explore the potential for further military actions in Latin America and beyond, mentioning Trump's interest in countries like Mexico, Iran, and Cuba.

Key Insights

• The United States has taken control of Venezuela's government following airstrikes and the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, with intentions to exploit the country's vast oil reserves, which are the largest in the world.
• A poll indicates that 91% of Venezuelans view opposition leader Maria Machado unfavorably, which has resulted in her not receiving support from the Trump administration.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, seeing it as a strengthening of ties with the American axis and aligning with Israel's interests.
• The U.S. intervention in Venezuela is partly justified by concerns over Hezbollah's activity in the region, as stated by U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee.