This morning, Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, witnessed a major US military operation: missile strikes targeted key locations and helicopters hovered above the city, causing panic among residents and electricity disruptions.
Prior to this, the US, under Donald Trump, increased pressure on Venezuela’s leadership, accusing President Nicolás Maduro of corruption, drug trafficking, and abuse of power. In recent months, the US imposed an oil blockade and carried out strikes against boats allegedly smuggling drugs from Venezuela.
The US intervention coincided with Russia’s support for Venezuela, supplying arms and claiming to assist militarily, though in reality, Russia did not intervene in hostilities. Notably, the Venezuelan army, despite having modern weaponry, did not counter the US air force operations.
Venezuela’s government condemned the US actions, mobilized defense plans, and announced an appeal to the United Nations. Later, Trump declared that Maduro had been apprehended and transferred to the US. A press conference is expected soon to provide details.
Analysts note that these events significantly impact the global oil market: oil prices may rise in the short term but could fall sharply if the regime is changed and conflict is short-lived.
Experts see the US goal as regaining energy market control, increasing the share of American oil on the world market, and applying economic pressure on Russia. Despite prior promises, Russia’s support did not alter the course of events.
Commentators highlight a trend of disregarding international law and the escalation of force, raising the risk of new conflicts worldwide.
