UPDATE: U.S. airstrikes targeting Venezuela have unleashed immediate alarm across Latin America and beyond, marking one of the most significant military interventions in the region since the 1989 invasion of Panama. The Trump administration’s aggressive move, which reportedly includes the “capture” of President Nicolás Maduro, was confirmed earlier today and is already reshaping geopolitical dynamics.
In response, Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia, announced heightened security measures along the border, preparing for a potential influx of Venezuelan refugees. Colombia is home to the largest Venezuelan diaspora, and the implications of this conflict could lead to a humanitarian crisis.
Multiple strikes were confirmed in Caracas, targeting key military installations and even the legislative building. President Petro condemned the U.S. action as a blatant act of aggression, calling for urgent de-escalation and respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva decried the attack, stating it “crossed an unacceptable line” and set a “dangerous precedent” for Latin America. He emphasized that such actions evoke “the worst moments of interference” in the region and threaten its long-held status as a zone of peace.
Further backlash came from other regional powers. Mexico labeled the strikes a violation of international law, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities. President Trump, speaking on Fox News, controversially claimed that “something is gonna have to be done with Mexico,” increasing concerns about U.S. intentions in the region.
Cuba and Nicaragua, close allies of Venezuela, are closely monitoring developments. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the strikes as “state terrorism,” calling for urgent international intervention. The Cuban government, already grappling with severe economic challenges, is particularly vulnerable to disruptions in Venezuelan oil supplies.
On the global stage, both China and Russia have expressed strong condemnation of the U.S. actions. Russia’s Foreign Ministry stated that the pretext for the strikes was unfounded, characterizing it as an “unacceptable assault” on Venezuela’s sovereignty. China echoed this sentiment, labeling the U.S. actions as a “blatant use of force” that threatens peace and security in the region.
In light of these escalating tensions, Venezuela has called for an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council to address the legality of the U.S. operation. The international community is now faced with urgent questions about the ramifications of this aggressive military intervention.
As the situation continues to unfold, the world watches closely, anticipating further developments in this high-stakes geopolitical crisis. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
