Venezuela seeks UN Security Council meeting on US bombings, foreign ministry says • FRANCE 24

International Reaction to US Action in Venezuela

Key Concepts:

• Narco-terrorism: The allegation by the US government that the Venezuelan government, under Nicholas Maduro, is involved in drug trafficking and using it to destabilize the region.
• De-escalation: The call for reduced tensions and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
• Regime Change: The potential for a shift in power in Venezuela, either through internal opposition or external intervention.
• US-Venezuela Relations: The historically strained relationship between the two countries, marked by accusations, sanctions, and now, direct military action.
• Russian & Chinese Involvement: The significant political and economic ties between Venezuela and Russia and China, influencing the international response.

International Condemnation & Varied Responses

Following overnight military actions by the US targeting Venezuela, a range of international reactions have emerged. Colombia’s President Duque immediately condemned the attacks and deployed troops to the Venezuelan border, ostensibly for defensive purposes. European responses have been more nuanced. Italy’s Georgia Meloni is “closely monitoring” the situation, focusing on gathering information regarding Italian citizens in Venezuela, but refrained from outright condemnation.

The US asserts that the strikes targeted sites involved in drug production, alleging that President Maduro and his wife have been captured and will be tried in the US. This claim is being sought for proof of life by Venezuelan Vice President Deli Rodriguez.

Belgium is attempting to coordinate a response with its European partners, while Germany expressed “great concern.” Spain offered to mediate a peaceful solution, calling for immediate de-escalation and restraint. France has yet to issue an official statement, though some political parties, like France on bow, have labeled the actions a “kidnapping” and a “scandal.”

Strong condemnation came from Cuba, Iran, and Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry denounced the US military action as unjustified “ideological hostility” and highlighted Venezuela’s importance as Russia’s key ally in South America. The attacks occurred at 2 a.m. local time.

Situation in Caracas & Beyond

Norris Argotto, a journalist reporting from Caracas, described a mood of “confusion” and shock among the population. While initial reports from Deli Rodriguez suggested civilian casualties, confirmation remains lacking, as the strikes primarily targeted military facilities. There is uncertainty regarding the whereabouts of Deli Rodriguez, who would normally assume power in Maduro’s absence, and her brother, Jorge Rodriguez, President of the National Assembly.

Argotto advised Venezuelans to remain calm and avoid public gatherings, fearing potential government-provoked unrest or curfews. Strikes also occurred in other cities, including Laa (near Caracas), Miranda, and Egote, targeting air bases and ports.

US Justification & Allegations Against Maduro

Shirley Sitbon clarified that the US alleges drug trafficking as the primary justification for the military intervention, claiming to have conducted 35 attacks since September, resulting in over 115 deaths. However, criticism exists regarding the lack of concrete evidence supporting these claims. The US asserts that Maduro is at the “heart” of the drug trafficking system, not merely failing to address it.

The potential for US interest in Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves was also discussed, with Maduro accusing the US of seeking to control Venezuelan oil. The US denies this, maintaining the focus is on halting drug trafficking.

Opposition & Potential for Change

Norris Argotto noted widespread discontent with Maduro’s regime, citing economic hardship, political repression, and restrictions on freedoms. He believes the current situation presents a rare opportunity for the Venezuelan opposition, which has historically faced suppression.

US Strategy & Broader Implications

Shirley Sitbon highlighted a potential shift in US strategy, with reports suggesting the US considers the initial phase of military action “achieved” with Maduro reportedly in US custody. The US is now observing the situation, awaiting the opposition’s response and the actions of remaining Venezuelan leadership.

Norris Argotto suggested the US action may be a broader message to Iran and China, Venezuela’s key allies, signaling a US attempt to reassert control over the region.

Trump’s Foreign Policy & Domestic Concerns

The discussion touched upon the apparent contradiction between Donald Trump’s “America First” rhetoric and his increasing involvement in international conflicts, including interventions in Africa. Some of Trump’s supporters have expressed concern over the expenditure of US resources on foreign interventions.

Lack of Proof & Ongoing Opacity

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the lack of conclusive evidence supporting the US allegations against Maduro. The situation remains opaque, with conflicting reports and limited independent verification.

Conclusion:

The US military action in Venezuela has triggered a complex international response, ranging from condemnation to cautious observation. While the US claims to have achieved its immediate objective with Maduro’s capture, the long-term implications remain uncertain. The situation presents a potential opportunity for the Venezuelan opposition, but the path forward is fraught with challenges and dependent on the actions of both domestic and international actors. The lack of transparent evidence supporting the US allegations and the broader geopolitical context, including the involvement of Russia and China, further complicate the situation.