Judging Freedom [SPECIAL] Jack Devine : Why is the CIA in Venezuela?
Oct 30, 2025
Jack Devine, a former CIA chief of operations and expert on U.S. policy toward Latin America, dives into the intricate web of CIA activities in Venezuela. He discusses the rationale behind U.S. interventions and the complexities of distinguishing between covert and clandestine operations. Devine addresses controversial claims of CIA drug facilitation, strong action against drug cartels, and the implications of congressional oversight. He even shares insights on the Ukraine conflict and how international dynamics influence U.S. foreign policy.
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Defending CIA Against Drug Allegations
- Devine strongly rejects claims CIA facilitated drug transport and recalls defending the agency publicly against those accusations.
- He cites the instance where Director John Deutsch faced boos while denying CIA involvement with drug shipments.
Brief Congress Before Major Actions
- Devine insists presidents should brief and work with Congress on major military actions and covert findings involving troops or carriers.
- He advises that putting boots or carrier assets in play should trigger congressional involvement.
Treating Cartels Like Terrorists
- Devine compares the fight against drug cartels to the campaign against ISIS, calling it a 'drug caliphate' meriting similar kinetic pressure.
- He suggests Trump's policy treats traffickers like terrorists and expects escalation onto land operations.