Alternate Shots with Richard Haass and John Ellis Episode 13
11 snips
Jan 14, 2026 The discussion dives deep into Iran's protests and the complexities of U.S. policy options. Venezuela's struggles illustrate the challenges of American foreign action, especially in oil investment. Trump's controversial Greenland proposal is deemed counterproductive, while insights into Cuba's potential collapse are explored. The political landscape heats up with predictions of voter suppression in the upcoming midterms. As a break from heavy topics, the hosts shift gears to tackle college and pro football, analyzing teams and players with humor.
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Episode notes
Moscow and Beijing Mostly Stand Aside
- Haass notes Russia and China have largely been bystanders in recent crises, including Venezuela and Iran so far.
- He sees limited capacity for them to salvage Iran's regime despite economic ties, especially with China.
Venezuela Is Uninvestable Without Stability
- Haass criticizes the U.S. approach in Venezuela as prioritizing oil and not addressing investability or nation-building needs.
- He highlights executives calling Venezuela 'uninvestable' without legal and political clarity.
Greenland Gambit Hurts US Credibility
- Haass calls Trump's Greenland proposal preposterous and diplomatically harmful to US allies.
- He warns it reinforces perceptions of the US as a rogue actor and needlessly strains NATO ties.