Mises Institute Three Key Lessons from the US's Venezuela Intervention
Jan 6, 2026
Dive into the controversial U.S. bombing in Caracas and its implications for American foreign policy. The discussion reveals how the Constitution is sidelined and democracy is often disregarded in favor of power dynamics. Explore the selective application of international law and the hypocrisy surrounding the Monroe Doctrine. Discover how U.S. interests shape foreign regimes, prioritizing compliance over genuine democratic values. Finally, it exposes the unsettling truth that Washington often dictates Venezuela’s leadership, regardless of popular vote.
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Constitutional War Powers Ignored
- The U.S. attacked Venezuela without a congressional declaration of war, undermining Article I of the Constitution.
- Ryan McMaken argues this shows modern presidencies bypass Congress to wage foreign wars at taxpayers' expense.
Oil Firms Notified Before Congress
- Trump informed oil companies about the Venezuela operation before informing Congress, per McMaken's account.
- This example illustrates how military actions get coordinated with industry and bypass legislative oversight.
Selective Application Of International Law
- International law is applied selectively by the U.S., used to justify actions against rivals but not to constrain itself or allies like Israel.
- McMaken claims U.S. foreign policy is raw power cloaked in legal pretense to serve ruling-class interests.
