Jacobin Radio Behind the News: Maduro Kidnapped w/ Alejandro Velasco
Jan 14, 2026
Alejandro Velasco, a historian and expert on Venezuela, delves into the country’s economic recovery amidst hyperinflation and political repression following contested elections. He discusses the enduring legacy of Chavismo, the challenges faced by Maduro, and the implications of U.S. foreign policy. Eric Blanc analyzes Victor Berger’s controversial racial history, showcasing his transformation from a white supremacist to an anti-racist leader. Blanc argues for the relevance of sewer socialism's lessons for contemporary leftist movements.
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Oil Industry's Decline Was Structural And Political
- PDVSA's role expanded into social programs and politics, enabling siphoning and corruption that undermined oil maintenance.
- Sanctions then blocked inputs and pushed production from ~3.5M to under 1M barrels per day.
Chevron's Foothold Could Shape Reopening
- Chevron maintained presence and strong ties with PDVSA figures like Delcy Rodríguez, positioning Western firms to benefit from reopening.
- Other companies' return remains uncertain amid political risk and need for guarantees.
Opposition Split Between Domestic And Expatriate
- Venezuela has two oppositions: domestic actors focused on building ground power and expatriate leaders like María Corina Machado pushing harder, often from abroad.
- Tension between those wings complicates any negotiated transition or foreign-backed plan.