Trump's oil deal / A year of boat strikes / Could Iran become a forever war?
Sep 3, 2026 · 26m
Summary
This episode examines the Trump administration’s aggressive Western Hemisphere policy, including a controversial US military stake in Venezuelan oil and deadly strikes on alleged drug boats. Hosts Scott Detrow, Greg Myre, and John Otis analyze the legal and humanitarian concerns surrounding these actions. The discussion also covers the escalating US-Iran conflict, drawing parallels to the post-9/11 wars and questioning the long-term strategic goals.
Topics discussed
Intro: Healthcare costs and show overview
US military stake in Venezuelan oil
Venezuela's political reality and US influence
Break and ad breaks
US strikes on drug boats in the Pacific
Trump's 'Donroe Doctrine' and Latin America
Break and ad breaks
US-Iran conflict loop and stalemate
9/11 anniversary and 'forever war' parallels
Political risks of ending wars badly
OSINT: Russia's early role in Afghanistan
Historical parallels: Suez and Churchill
Outro and NPR Plus promotion
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