Why it matters:
Tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela are escalating as the Trump administration intensifies its pressure campaign, using claims of drug trafficking to legitimize potential military actions against a sovereign government.
The big picture:
The U.S. has recently increased its naval presence in the Caribbean under the guise of counter-narcotics operations. Venezuela asserts that these actions are part of a broader effort to undermine and overthrow the Maduro government, pointing to recent incidents, including the boarding and seizure of Venezuelan fishing boats, as evidence of U.S. provocation.
What he is saying:
In a direct address to American service members, Padrino López questioned the honor and purpose of their mission: “Do not tarnish your military honor. Are you dedicating yourselves to such a shameful activity? Do you not think you are violating your military integrity?”
Key points:
- The U.S. has designated Maduro and senior Venezuelan officials as leaders of a fictional “Cartel of the Sun” narcoterrorist organization.
- Venezuela highlights 27 years of UN reports that do not classify the country as a producer, consumer, or transit route for illegal drugs.
- Recent confrontations include the seizure of a boat carrying 11 Venezuelans alleged to be transporting drugs and the detainment of nine humble fishermen by U.S. Marines.
- Padrino López vowed that Venezuela’s National Bolivarian Armed Forces will not yield to U.S. provocations.
Go deeper:
Maduro Urges U.S. to Abandon ‘Violent Regime Change’ Plans in Venezuela
M.Majdi - Hossein Vaez
