6 chapters across the catalog
Manuel Noriega Surrender Anniversary, January 3rd Historical Significance
A historical parallel is drawn between the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the surrender of Manuel Noriega on January 3, 1990. Noriega surrendered to U.S. forces at the Vatican Embassy in Panama before being flown to Miami on drug charges. The timing of the Maduro operation suggests a preference for significant historical dates within the current administration.
Congressional War Powers, Panama Precedent and Military Legal Counsel
Senator Rand Paul and other lawmakers express concern over the lack of congressional authorization for potential military action in South America. The discussion contrasts current executive maneuvers with historical interventions in Panama and Grenada. Further attention is given to the removal of top uniformed lawyers in the military, which critics suggest is an attempt to bypass legal roadblocks to commander-in-chief orders.
Pieczenik recounts his meetings with Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega, whom he describes as a former U.S. ally in drug trafficking. He claims Noriega refused a "Godfather-style" offer to leave Panama with his wealth and mistresses. Pieczenik alleges that the U.S. turned on Noriega once he became a liability to the Bush family's own involvement in the drug trade.
US Special Representative Elliot Abrams warned Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro not to test the "all options on the table" threat, referencing the fate of Manuel Noriega. The hosts lament the return of "neocons" like Abrams and John Bolton to the administration, arguing they have pushed Trump away from his non-interventionist campaign promises.
General Wesley Clark appeared on CNN to analyze the tactical failures of the Turkish coup executors, noting they failed to arrest the president or shut down the internet. Clark compares the situation to the 1989 move against Manuel Noriega in Panama, suggesting that for a coup to succeed, the perpetrators must be willing to use lethal force immediately.
White House Counsel Gregory B. Craig is highlighted for his history of representing controversial high-profile clients. His past roster includes John Hinckley Jr., Ted Kennedy, the father of Elián González, Kofi Annan during the Oil-for-Food scandal, and former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega.
