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Assessing the Capabilities of Venezuela’s Military and Armed Groups

The Insider
John Polga-Hecimovich and Kerry Anderson
January 9, 2026

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Episode Notes:

John Polga-Hecimovich wrote "Weak in Battle, Dangerous in Resistance: Venezuela’s Military Preparedness and Possible Responses to U.S. Action," published in War on the Rocks on Dec. 18. In the aftermath of the Jan. 3 capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Kerry talks with John about his earlier assessment of Venezuela's armed forces and the ongoing military and security risks following the U.S. action — including the array of armed groups in the country and potential scenarios for the future.

Image: Wikimedia Commons