"From Poisoned Milkshakes to Precision Bombs: the Evolution of US Assassination Policy

"From poisoned milkshakes to precision bombs: the evolution of US assassination policy"
With Dr. Luca Trenta

Summary

When Fidel Castro entered one of his favourite Havana cafes in March 1963 and ordered his
drink of choice, a chocolate milkshake, he could not imagine that someone in the backroom was
frantically trying to detach from the freezer a poison capsule. It wasn’t the first time that the US
government had tried to assassinate a foreign leader, and it would not be the last.
In this talk we trace the evolution of US assassination policy from the early Cold War to the
recent war in Iran. We will explore some milestones in this evolution such as the aggressive
campaign against Fidel Castro, the role assassination played in the Vietnam quagmire, the brief
attempt in the 1970s to outlaw assassination, the Reagan Administration’s attempt against
Qaddafi, and the evolution of US assassination policy since 9/11.

From the delivery of poison to the use of drones and precision-guided munitions, we will
uncover how assassination has been a particular controversial weapon in the US foreign policy
arsenal; something the US government obscures and denies. Assassination, to paraphrase
comedian John Oliver, is something the US government does not do, except when it does.

Bio

Dr Luca Trenta is an Associate Professor in International Relations at Swansea University. He is
an expert in intelligence, covert action, and state-sponsored assassination. His research has
featured in several academic journals as well as in the New Yorker, The Economist, and the
Financial Times. He is the author of The President’s Kill List: assassination in US foreign policy
since 1945. The book won the Richard E. Neustadt prize in 2025 for best book on US politics
published by a UK or EU-based academic. An engaging public speaker, he has held several
events at national and international festivals including the Being Human Festival of the
Humanities and the Hay-on-Wye International Book Festival.


Venue:
Loko Club
Clock Tower Yd
Bristol
BS1 6QH


Event Running Time:
Doors 4pm
Introduction: 4:25pm
Lecture: 4:30pm
Q&A: 5:15pm
Mix & mingle with other attendees 5:25pm
Wrap up 5:45pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQ

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (about 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by audience Q&A. The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event dog friendly?

Yes, Pints of Knowledge at Drygate is dog friendly. We request that dogs are on a leash and well behaved. If there's persistent disturbance you will be asked to leave.