#102 Rory Cormac: Coups, Assassinations and Covert Wars Are Back - And the Rules Have Changed

The podcast explores the complex world of covert actions, focusing on how states secretly undermine their rivals while denying involvement. Rory Cormac, a professor and expert in covert actions, discusses the challenges of researching such a secretive topic and differentiating covert actions from other forms of interference. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the signaling aspect of covert actions, where ambiguity is strategically used for messaging purposes. The discussion touches on the U.S. attempts to overthrow Maduro's regime in Venezuela, examining the historical context and success rates of such interventions. Ultimately, the podcast questions the effectiveness and long-term consequences of covert regime changes as a tool of statecraft.