The removal of Nicholas Maduro, the former bus driver who ascended to power as Venezuela’s de facto leader, may bring relief to many. However, the method of his ousting by Donald Trump has raised concerns about global order once again. The recent actions towards Venezuela reflect the expansionist tendencies of the US President, who has also shown interest in acquiring Greenland and reclaiming the Panama Canal. The lack of clear international support for the US intervention in Venezuela raises questions about its legality.
While some argue that Maduro, who followed Hugo Chavez and oversaw an increasingly authoritarian regime, lacked legitimacy, Venezuela’s economic decline from a prosperous nation to a struggling one is evident. Despite winning the 2024 presidential contest, Maduro’s legitimacy was widely disputed, leading to calls for regime change. The strategic importance of Venezuela’s oil resources, particularly in relation to US interests, played a significant role in the decision to intervene.
The US administration’s motives were not solely driven by concerns about narcotics but also strategic military positioning in the region. The outcome of Maduro’s removal appears to be a tactical success for Trump, while traditional allies of Venezuela such as Russia, China, and Iran face a setback.
The situation has put the UK in a delicate position, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European leaders expressing concerns about the questionable legality of the intervention. While Maduro’s departure may benefit Venezuela internally, the manner in which it was orchestrated raises broader concerns about global order. The actions of the US, seen as a revisionist power seeking to alter the existing world order, have implications for its allies who rely on its leadership in upholding democratic principles.
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