Story perspectives

Venezuela's Kleptocracy: De Waal Critiques U.S. Approach

2/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Alex de Waal, scholar, argues that kleptocracy and gangsterism define Venezuela's political landscape under Nicolás Maduro.
He says the United States approach to regime change preserves power while swapping leaders, a mafia don model.
De Waal critiques U.S. President Donald Trump for embracing kleptocracy, arguing it undermines international law and human rights.
He notes that the political marketplace, where power is traded for loyalty, has become dominant as U.S. hegemony wanes.

History

Historical Context

Nicolás Maduro became president of Venezuela in 2013, inheriting a nation grappling with severe economic decline and rampant corruption. By 2019, over 90% of Venezuelans lived in poverty, exacerbated by hyperinflation and mass emigration. The ongoing humanitarian crisis reflects a broader pattern of authoritarian governance, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the implications for global human rights.

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Story summary

Alex de Waal, scholar, argues that kleptocracy and gangsterism define Venezuela's political landscape under Nicolás Maduro.
He says the United States approach to regime change preserves power while swapping leaders, a mafia don model.
De Waal critiques U.S. President Donald Trump for embracing kleptocracy, arguing it undermines international law and human rights.
He notes that the political marketplace, where power is traded for loyalty, has become dominant as U.S. hegemony wanes.

1 / 2