The world has witnessed a sharp new escalation: US President Donald Trump announced the start of a special military operation in Venezuela. Powerful explosions were heard in the capital Caracas, with planes flying over the city. Media report airstrikes against key sites, including the defense minister's residence and the port.
According to US officials, the operation's goal was to detain Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who, together with his wife, was transported to the United States. The US Attorney General has announced formal charges against Maduro for terrorism, drug trafficking, and threats to national security.
In response to the attack, Maduro declared a state of emergency, while Russian and Chinese officials publicly condemned US actions as violations of Venezuelan sovereignty. Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves, but due to sanctions, lack of investment, and outdated infrastructure, its impact on the global oil market remains minimal.
Experts note that opening Venezuela’s oil sector to Western companies could seriously affect Russia's position, as Russia has partly controlled Venezuelan oil through shadow schemes. The US strikes on Venezuela are likely to trigger changes in energy markets and weaken Russia's role in oil exports.
Venezuela’s political situation, its alliance with Russia and China, and future US steps could significantly affect the war in Ukraine as well as global and European security. The international community urges de-escalation and respect for international law.
