10 chapters across the catalog
Brian Hook is stepping down as the U.S. Special Envoy for Iran, to be replaced by Elliott Abrams. This shift, combined with Jared Kushner's increased public presence, suggests a new phase in the administration's "maximum pressure" campaign. The diplomatic movement follows the peace deal between Israel and the UAE.
Steve Pieczenik critiques the failed coup attempt in Venezuela, blaming John Bolton for a lack of charisma in Juan Guaidó and a misunderstanding of how military flips are negotiated. Pieczenik asserts that the true motivation for U.S. involvement in Venezuela is to prevent China from gaining access to oil reserves, rather than concerns over Russian influence.
Venezuela Coup Deconstruction and Coordinated Email Campaign
Adam Curry describes receiving three nearly identical, coordinated emails demanding the show change its stance on Venezuela to support the Trump administration's efforts. The emails specifically pressure the hosts to endorse figures like John Bolton and Elliott Abrams while citing YouTube videos by Dr. Steve Pachanek. The hosts analyze these messages as a "techno expert" operation likely originating from state-affiliated actors or organized diaspora groups.
Venezuela Interim Presidency Rules and UN Vote Buying
State Department envoy Elliott Abrams faced questioning from reporter Matt Lee regarding the legality of Juan Guaidó's interim presidency. The Venezuelan National Assembly passed a resolution stating Guaidó's 30-day mandate only begins once Maduro leaves office, a move Lee characterized as an ex post facto rule change. Additionally, an "economic hitman" producer provides background on the military's role in Venezuela and China's influence in the UN.
Elliott Abrams and Latin American Policy Criticism
US Special Envoy to Venezuela Elliott Abrams is facing calls for removal from the Holocaust Memorial Museum's committee due to his controversial history in Latin America. Critics cite his support for US-backed forces in Guatemala during the 1980s, which a court later defined as genocide. Abrams's past strategies, including using humanitarian aid to deliver weapons, are being scrutinized as the US pushes for regime change in Venezuela.
Representative Ilhan Omar questioned Special Envoy Elliott Abrams during a committee hearing regarding his involvement in the Iran-Contra affair and the 1982 El Mozote massacre in El Salvador. The exchange became contentious when Omar refused to allow Abrams to respond to her assertions, reclaiming her time repeatedly. Critics suggest the freshman representative was following a pre-written script provided by the Justice Democrats.
Victoria Nuland announced her immediate departure from the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). Speculation suggests she may be preparing to join a potential Hillary Clinton campaign or work with Elliott Abrams on the Venezuela project. Despite reports from Paul Podesta that Clinton will not run in 2020, analysts suggest she may enter the race if the current field of candidates falters.
Venezuela Arms Seizure, Elliott Abrams and Coup Efforts
Venezuelan authorities reportedly seized 19 assault weapons and military-grade radio equipment from a U.S.-owned plane flying from Miami. The aircraft, owned by 21 Air, had made numerous trips between Florida and South America since January. Meanwhile, U.S. special envoy Elliott Abrams ruled out negotiations with the Maduro government, insisting on dealing solely with Juan Guaidó.
The appointment of Elliott Abrams as special envoy to Venezuela sparks a discussion on his controversial history in Central America during the Reagan administration. A clip from "Democracy Now!" features investigative reporter Alan Nairn detailing Abrams' involvement in the Iran-Contra affair and his support for regimes in Guatemala and El Salvador. The segment includes a 1995 Charlie Rose clip where Nairn confronted Abrams, calling for him to be tried for war crimes.
Elliott Abrams, Special Envoy for Venezuela, Iran-Contra
Elliott Abrams has been appointed as the US Special Envoy for Venezuela, a move that signals a hardline approach given his history in the Iran-Contra affair. Abrams is expected to utilize his experience with South American assets and paramilitary strategies to address the Maduro regime. His appointment coincided with the escalation of diplomatic tensions between Washington and Caracas.
