What's happened
The US conducted a surprise military operation in Venezuela, seizing Maduro and his wife, involving commandos, airstrikes, and naval forces. The UN will hold an emergency session amid international concern. Washington aims to replace Maduro with a compliant government, focusing on Venezuela's oil reserves.
What's behind the headline?
The US operation marks a significant escalation in its approach to Venezuela, shifting from economic sanctions to direct military intervention. The use of force, including commandos and airstrikes, indicates a willingness to pursue regime change more aggressively. The international response is divided: allies like Italy and Israel support the US, while China, Russia, and Iran condemn the action as a violation of international law. The operation's success hinges on Maduro's removal and the establishment of a US-friendly government, but the long-term stability of Venezuela remains uncertain. The Biden administration's stance appears cautious, avoiding full regime change but seeking control over Venezuela's oil resources. This move could deepen regional instability and provoke further opposition from Russia and China, who see it as an encroachment on sovereignty. The upcoming UN session will be critical in shaping international reactions and potential sanctions or diplomatic responses. The broader implications include increased US influence in Latin America and a possible precedent for future covert interventions in the region.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that the US operation involved commandos, jet bombings, and naval forces, with Maduro and his wife seized. France 24 highlights the international concern, noting the UN Security Council's emergency session and global reactions, including condemnation from China, Russia, and Iran. The Independent emphasizes Trump's statements onboard Air Force One, claiming the US is 'in charge' and discussing plans to rebuild Venezuela's infrastructure and control its oil industry. The contrasting opinions reflect a geopolitical divide: Western allies support intervention, while Russia, China, and Iran oppose it as a violation of sovereignty. The US aims to install a compliant government without full regime change, but the long-term outcome remains uncertain.
How we got here
Venezuela has been under leftist rule for over two decades, first under Hugo Chavez and then Nicolas Maduro. The country faces economic collapse, political unrest, and widespread corruption. The US has long opposed Maduro's government, accusing it of narcotrafficking and election fraud, and has sought to influence regime change through sanctions and covert operations.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What is the US covert operation in Venezuela all about?
Recently, the US launched a surprise covert operation in Venezuela, involving military forces and strategic strikes. This has raised many questions about what actually happened, why the US targeted Venezuela, and what the international response might be. Below, we explore the key details and answer common questions about this unfolding situation.
-
What Are the Implications of the US Military Action in Venezuela?
The recent US military operation in Venezuela has sparked global concern and raised many questions about its impact. People are wondering what this means for Venezuela's future, international relations, and the possibility of escalation. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this significant event and what it could mean for global stability.
More on these topics
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego is a Colombian politician, ex guerrilla member and a presidential candidate who previously served as mayor of Bogotá. A left-wing politician, Petro was a member of the revolutionary group M-19 in the 1980s.