Hey there, global citizens! 🌏 On January 3, 2026, the world watched in disbelief as US forces launched a live-televised strike on Caracas, forcibly taking President Nicolás Maduro and his wife to the United States. 😲
At a Mar-a-Lago press conference, US President Donald Trump "proudly" hailed the operation as "one of the most stunning, effective, and powerful displays of American military might and competence in American history." He even compared it to an assault unseen since World War II.
But beyond the fireworks, this move has sparked a serious question: What happens when a founding member of the postwar peace order ignores its own rulebook? The UN Charter—basically the global rulebook created after 1945 to keep the peace—was meant to protect smaller states that can’t defend themselves alone.
By capturing Venezuela’s leader without any UN mandate, the US has jolted the system that held major powers in check for over 80 years. 🤯
Some analysts draw parallels with ancient war stories, like the Chinese strategist Lü Meng’s undercover river crossing—a bold win that came at the cost of consensus and long-term trust. Today’s "victory" might look dazzling, but it risks eroding the global norms we all depend on.
For young pros in South Asia and Southeast Asia—regions built on cooperation and respect for sovereignty—this is a wake-up call. As we scroll, tweet, and chat about tomorrow’s tech, entertainment, and social change, let’s also keep an eye on how global power plays shape our future. 🌐✌️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
