In a striking development with global implications, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reacted to the dramatic US military operation in Venezuela, suggesting a potential precedent for dealing with dictators. His comment came during a news conference following a meeting with European national security advisors.
Zelenskyy's Cryptic Remark on Dictators
While addressing reporters, President Zelenskyy stated, "If it's possible to deal with dictators this way, then the US knows what to do next." Although he did not mention any country by name, observers on social media and in diplomatic circles widely interpreted his remark as a pointed reference to Russia and its ongoing war in Ukraine. His statement was met with laughter from journalists present in the room.
The US Operation in Caracas
Zelenskyy's reaction was prompted by an announcement from US President Donald Trump. Trump revealed that American forces had successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in an overnight raid in the capital, Caracas. The operation was described as a swift military action.
President Trump outlined that a team, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, would work with cooperating Venezuelan officials to oversee the country's administration. "We are going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition," Trump declared.
Trump's 'America First' Justification and Global Reactions
The former US leader framed the intervention as a core part of his "America First" agenda. He argued that the move would protect US regional security, secure a steady source of oil, and boost American business interests. In a stark comparison, Trump referenced the conflict in Ukraine, saying, "When I watch that war in Russia going on and on and on and everybody dying. It's primitive. It's horrible. It's horrible, it's really horrible."
Trump further pledged that American energy companies would assist in rebuilding Venezuela's infrastructure and did not dismiss the possibility of sending troops back if needed, noting, "We're not afraid of boots on the ground…we had boots on the ground last night."
The bold operation has triggered mixed international responses:
- China strongly condemned the action, labelling it as reckless.
- Republican lawmakers in the US largely expressed support for Trump's decisive move.
- Democratic politicians raised significant concerns over the lack of prior consultation with Congress and the potential risks of escalating into a full-scale war.
The event marks a significant moment in international relations, linking the geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe with those in Latin America, and setting a controversial precedent for unilateral military intervention.
