UPDATE: US authorities have just captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife, Cilia Flores, in a dramatic covert operation in Caracas. This shocking move has ignited fears of escalating tensions, with Russian officials warning that US military actions in Venezuela may lead to a dire “catastrophe.”
Russian senator Alexei Pushkov, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, condemned the US actions as a violation of international norms, stating they are “alarming the whole world.” In a post on Telegram, Pushkov emphasized the potential for America’s strategy to backfire, questioning whether this so-called “triumph” could lead to disastrous outcomes. “What will the final result be? Will this ‘triumph’ not turn into a catastrophe?” he asked.
As Maduro and Flores are being transported to New York to face criminal charges, US President Donald Trump asserted, “We’re in charge,” during his flight from Mar-a-Lago, Florida to Washington. His comments underscore the US’s intention to take control of Venezuela’s leadership following Maduro’s ouster.
In a surprising turn, Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has expressed a willingness to collaborate with the Trump administration. This marks a significant shift from her previous stance, where she labeled the US as “extremists.” Rodriguez now seeks “respectful relations,” inviting the US to join in a cooperative agenda grounded in international law.
However, Trump issued a stern warning to Rodriguez, indicating she could face “a very big price” if she does not comply with US demands. This highlights the precarious nature of the situation as the world watches closely.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clarified that while the US intends to enforce an existing “oil quarantine” on Venezuela, it may not directly govern the country on a daily basis. As the dust settles, the full extent of US involvement in Venezuela’s future remains uncertain.
The United Kingdom has joined calls for a swift transition of power in Venezuela, especially in light of the upcoming UN Security Council meeting set for October 9, 2023. As Maduro prepares to appear in court, the international community is bracing for the unfolding drama.
This extraordinary turn of events raises questions about the future of Venezuela and the potential implications for global stability. With multiple geopolitical players involved, the impact of these developments will be felt well beyond Venezuela’s borders.
As tensions escalate, stay tuned for further updates on this rapidly evolving situation.
