I can’t remember where I read it, but when the US attacked Venezuela in early January, one commentator put it like this: Trump does not like war. What he does like is the spectacle of attacks. Go in and capture Maduro, that’s spectacle. Launch precision attacks on Iran’s leadership and kill their Supreme Leader, that’s spectacle. A show of force. This is where this piece by a former US army commander comes in. Key quote: «Make no mistake, this tactical excellence should not be mistaken for strategic clarity.» Venezuela was over quickly, this one might not.

From Weekly Filet #565, in March 2026.