US Military Build-Up in Venezuela: Echoes of Past Interventions
The US is escalating military pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, echoing past interventions in Latin America. The US has labeled Maduro a narco-terrorist and is taking strong action against him.
Historical Context
Leaders like Salvador Allende in Chile and Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic faced similar fates. Allende, a democratically elected Marxist, died during a 1973 coup believed to be backed by the US. Trujillo, a dictator, was assassinated in 1961, with the CIA reportedly supplying the weapons.
The US has a history of covert operations in Latin America:
- 1954: CIA orchestrated a coup in Guatemala, leading to a brutal civil war.
- Multiple attempts to assassinate Fidel Castro.
- Backed the failed Bay of Pigs invasion.
Current Escalation
The US is flexing its military muscles in Venezuela, with the biggest naval build-up since the Cuban missile crisis. Reports suggest the US is ready to strike military targets, putting Maduro's life at risk.
- $50 million bounty on Maduro's head.
- Former CIA analyst warns any attempt to capture Maduro could turn deadly.
- Past assassination attempts:
- Drone attack in 2018.
- Failed infiltration by US-backed dissidents in 2020.
Military Deployment
The US has deployed a massive force off Venezuela's coast, including:
- Aircraft carriers
- Bombers
The US claims Maduro is involved in drug trafficking, but experts dispute this. Trump has also authorized the CIA to conduct covert activities in Venezuela.
Critics' Concerns
Critics argue targeting Maduro is different from going after terrorists like Osama bin Laden or Qassem Suleimani. Maduro is a sitting president, and going after him could have serious consequences.
Analysts' Predictions
- Some believe the US is trying to provoke a coup.
- Others think this could lead to a power vacuum or a loyalist takeover.
- Former Venezuelan diplomat suggests a coup is unlikely, as even Maduro's critics are rallying against US pressure.
