What is the goal of the United States government in Venezuela?
David Westin
Richard Haass
The principal US goal is access for American oil companies to Venezuela's oil sector. Other objectives are secondary.
What is the range of possible outcomes in Venezuela?
David Westin
Richard Haass
Best case: continuity with growing US economic relationship, no boots on the ground. Worst case: breakdown of order and violence.
How will the US oil-sharing arrangement with Venezuela work?
David Westin
Richard Haass
The 'allowance' deal risks triggering nationalist backlash, as seen in historical oil nationalizations.
What are the regional consequences beyond Venezuela?
David Westin
Richard Haass
Cuba is most vulnerable; Mexico is unwilling/unable to stop cartels; Canada relationship is scratchy; US interest in Greenland reflects economic focus.
Greenland is under Denmark/NATO, not Western Hemisphere. What does this focus reveal?
David Westin
Richard Haass
US foreign policy is now dominated by homeland security and economic welfare, not traditional great power theaters (Europe/Asia).
What does the Venezuela intervention signal to Putin?
David Westin
Richard Haass
Putin benefits overall: US validates great power intervention, separates from Europe, and focuses on Western Hemisphere.