Jacobin Radio Confronting Capitalism: The Coup in Venezuela
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Jan 14, 2026 Gabriel Hetland, an Associate Professor and author of *Democracy on the Ground*, dives into the recent U.S. operation against Nicolás Maduro. He discusses the internal power struggles within Venezuela, the role of Delcy Rodríguez, and the implications of U.S. intervention on regional politics. Hetland explores the eroding support for Chavismo, the complex military loyalties, and the potential for nationalist backlash against U.S. control. Their conversation paints a vivid picture of Venezuela's political landscape amid ongoing imperial tensions.
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Oil Access Was Already On Maduro's Agenda
- The U.S. is pushing Venezuela to hand over oil access, a demand Maduro had wanted before sanctions forced him toward other partners.
- Hetland argues many concessions now being exacted were already on Maduro's agenda, though under coercive conditions.
Rodríguez's Compliance Is Both Coercive And Strategic
- Delcy Rodríguez's compliance reflects extreme coercion and narrow political choices under U.S. pressure.
- Hetland notes she likely cooperates partly to survive and partly because she shares some policy goals with Maduro.
Military Loyalty Is Transactional
- The military's loyalty is tied to networks of legal and illicit resource flows, making it resilient but vulnerable.
- Hetland warns an extended oil embargo could fracture these networks and produce instability within the armed forces.
