The Pete Quiñones Show Pete Reads 'Coup D'état' by Edward N. Luttwak with Guests - Complete Part 2 of 2
Feb 7, 2026
Christopher Sandbatch, a historian-style analyst offering context and parallels, and John Fieldhouse, a tactical military analyst, join the reading. They probe police and paramilitary roles, failed Algiers tactics, seizing media and transport, isolating political parties and unions, choke points and roadblocks, neutralizing religious and jihadi threats, and post-takeover stabilization and legitimacy strategies.
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Deny Entry Through Choke Points And Airports
- Block major choke points and close airports to prevent loyalist reinforcements.
- Use simple runway denial (park vehicles) or warning fire to stop landings without destroying infrastructure.
Symbols Drive Mass Perception Post-Coup
- Symbolic buildings matter because masses equate possession with legitimacy.
- Seizing a few key symbols can sway public perception even if they're administratively empty.
Preempt Militant Groups And Leaders
- Identify militant organizations (trade unions, Islamist militias, parties) before a coup and neutralize their leaders.
- Arrest or disrupt groups that can rapidly mobilize mass strikes or demonstrations.
