An Emboldened Trump Makes Big Bets in Venezuela, Iran and Beyond

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by David E. SangerJanuary 14, 2026 at 11:01 AM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

A recent news analysis reports that President Trump is pursuing a strategy of maximal intervention in Venezuela, Iran, and Cuba. He aims to exploit Venezuelan oil resources, potentially cutting off fuel and funding to Cuba. Trump is also actively encouraging Iranian protesters to overthrow their government. This emboldened approach follows actions such as striking Iranian nuclear sites and seizing Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. If successful, these actions could lead to the fall of repressive regimes in these countries. However, this interventionist approach contrasts with his administration's initial focus on the Western Hemisphere and dismantling of soft power instruments.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Army Delta Force 30% David E. Sanger ×230% State Department 30% Nicolás Maduro 40% Exxon Mobil 40% Caracas ×250% Tehran ×250% Cuba ×260% Iran ×680% Venezuela ×480% Donald Trump ×1090%

Keywords

interventionism 90% trump 90% foreign policy 80% regime change 70% national security strategy 70% iran 70% venezuela 70% cuba 60% oil resources 50% nuclear program 50%