😲 In early January 2026, the United States launched large-scale air strikes on Venezuela and captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife — a move that's shaken up the region and reignited debates about US power in Latin America.
Under the UN Charter, regime change by force is off-limits without Security Council approval. Bombing another country's capital and seizing its leader raises tough questions about international law and civilian safety.
A spokesperson from China's Foreign Ministry slammed the operation as a breach of Venezuela's sovereignty, warning it threatens peace across Latin America and the Caribbean.
This swift action feels like Monroe Doctrine 2.0. Originally meant to keep European powers out of the Americas, over time it morphed into a license for US intervention — deciding who can govern in its so-called 'backyard.'
History shows such unilateral moves often backfire: toppling leaders rarely builds strong democracies. Instead, they can fragment societies, fuel radical groups, and stir up long-lasting resentment.
Even from a strategic angle, if the world's most powerful nation treats international norms as optional, it risks eroding the rules designed to keep global peace. That's not just a Latin America issue—it has ripple effects everywhere.
With climate talks and migration pacts on the horizon, this show of force could turn potential cooperation into deeper mistrust. 🌍⚠️
As the dust settles, one big question looms: will power trump the will of the people when it comes to Latin America's future? 🤔
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
