After gaining power from being a bus driver to Venezuela’s de facto ruler, the removal of Nicholas Maduro might be welcomed by many. However, the method of his removal by Donald Trump has once again disrupted global order. Along with the actions taken against Venezuela, this showcases the expansionist agenda of the US President. Trump’s ambitions extend to acquiring Greenland and regaining control of the Panama Canal, presenting clear intentions for regime change in Venezuela without evident international backing.
While some argue that Maduro, who succeeded Hugo Chavez, lacked legitimacy due to his increasingly authoritarian rule over Venezuela, a once prosperous nation now struggling economically, the means by which the US intervened in Venezuela raise legal concerns. Despite Maduro’s lack of democratic support, as evidenced by the opposition’s likely victory in the 2024 presidential elections, the global community may question the justification for such intervention solely based on this premise.
The significance of Venezuela’s oil reserves cannot be overlooked, with the US seeking to safeguard the interests of Chevron, a major American oil company operating in the country. The escalation of military pressure on Maduro reflects a strategic move by the US, driven partly by economic motives. The intervention was not primarily motivated by narcotics concerns, but rather by the need to justify the military buildup in the region.
The outcome of Maduro’s removal appears advantageous for Trump, yet it signals defeat for Venezuela’s traditional allies like Russia, China, and Iran. The UK, distancing itself from the intervention, faces a dilemma regarding the legality of the operation. While Maduro’s exit may benefit Venezuela internally, the orchestrated manner of his removal raises concerns about the impact on global stability. The US’s disruptive actions challenge the existing world order and pose dilemmas for its allies, who historically relied on America’s leadership in defending democratic principles and free trade.
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