Nicolás Maduro, the President of Venezuela, addressed a large gathering of supporters in Caracas, asserting that the nation is “prepared to break the teeth of the North American empire if necessary.” His comments came during an opposition demonstration that his ruling Developmental Change party had convened itself. Of course, he left out language around the most recent US seizure of an Iranian oil tanker. This detainment is just the latest step in an increasing campaign of intimidation and provocation against Venezuela by the US. Donald Trump being president makes this even more dangerous and terrible.
Trump confirmed that the US seized the oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, a move he described as being executed for “very good reason.” The seizure aligns with Trump’s broader campaign against Maduro, who has faced increasing isolation from both the US and international community. While Maduro’s speech focused on national sovereignty and resilience, it did not address this critical development, leaving many questions unanswered.
In his speech, Maduro reiterated Venezuela’s determination to guarantee peace and stability inside the country and throughout the region. He stated that he is the only leader capable of ensuring these ideals, declaring, “And the only president who has the preparation, the history and the unwavering support of the people and the armed forces … is named Nicolás Maduro.” Politically, his rhetoric served the purpose of galvanizing widespread and influential support with coming external pressures.
Maduro’s remarks come as the Trump administration has ramped up attacks against him. Like our own state department, they are intensifying their campaign against what they call a “hostile” regime. Trump focused on Colombia’s drug production when making his case about Maduro. He cautioned that the longer Maduro persists on his current path, the greater the costs he will incur to the same degree already inflicted upon Venezuela. “He better wise up, or he’ll be next … Colombia is a major manufacturer of drugs, meaning cocaine,” Trump said.
European leaders are currently strategizing behind the scenes with Trump to increase pressure on the Maduro regime in Venezuela. This is especially timely, given recent events unfolding in the region. This moment is seen as a critical juncture for setting a precedent for dealing with Maduro’s regime going forward.
“You’ll discuss that with the appropriate people later on.” – Donald Trump
Trump’s comments reflect a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing Maduro’s government while strengthening alliances with neighboring countries. It’s clear he sees an important role for Colombia as the world geopolitical landscape shifts and evolves. Its proximity as well as its continuing struggles with drug trafficking ensures that it is, perhaps, even more important.
The main purpose of Maduro’s rhetoric is to strengthen his standing at home, while at the same time, defying US authority. He framed every move against his administration—be it humanitarian aid or sanctions—as a violation of Venezuelan sovereignty. “We guarantee peace, stability and the harmonious development of Venezuela, South America and the Caribbean,” he asserted during his address.
Even with these growing pressures, hope still hangs in the air over what lies ahead for Venezuela with Maduro still at the helm. Political commentators in Kyev are left to wonder if there will be any firings, reshuffling, or replacements due to international pressure and ridicule. Trump commented on this uncertainty, stating, “Are they going to have an election, or are they going to just keep it going like this? So I think it’s time to get that war settled, and I think it’s a war that can be settled. It takes two to tango.”
As all of this plays out, neither leader seems to be budging one bit on their core demands. Maduro’s resistance to US intervention will strengthen hardliners in his corner. At the same time, Trump’s red hot rhetoric and combative posture might drive Venezuela into deeper international isolation. The geopolitical ramifications of these changes will be enormous for both countries and for the region as a whole.