The United States has launched a military operation in Venezuela, marking one of the most significant events of the year’s beginning. Eyewitness reports and footage show aircraft and helicopters resembling US military equipment conducting combat operations and paratroopers landing, adding tension to the region.
Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro called the intervention an illegal annexation and declared a state of emergency, seeking to mobilize support. However, with low political legitimacy, economic crisis, high inflation, and massive emigration, Maduro’s regime has limited resources. The opposition, having won both presidential and parliamentary elections, is urging US assistance.
Oil remains a central issue. Venezuela exported little oil, keeping global prices higher, which benefitted Russia. The operation may gradually restore production, releasing Venezuelan heavy crude to the market. This aligns with US refinery needs, which rely on a blend of light and heavy oil—a driving technological and economic factor for the US administration under Trump.
International response is mixed: Maduro appeals to the UN via Chinese media, but Russia, Cuba, and China are weakened and unlikely to provide substantial support. These dynamics indicate a likely end to Maduro’s regime and those loyal to him. Venezuelan authorities have used paramilitary units to suppress dissent, violated voting rights, and restricted freedom of speech, further eroding public support.
The fall of the authoritarian government could pave the way for reforms and resource inflows. The expert suggests Maduro's defeat may signal a new era for Venezuela and serve as a warning for other authoritarian regimes.
The article also notes that Russia and the oil market could be affected by new participants lowering prices, impacting Russia’s economy. The US operation prompts global debate about the international community’s role in supporting democracy and protecting citizens’ rights.