WASHINGTON / CARACAS — The U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has triggered worldwide reaction, with critics questioning the true motive behind the military operation and some accusing Washington of pursuing Venezuela’s vast oil reserves.
As reports of explosions and U.S. military activity spread across Caracas, voices on social media and international political circles began labeling the operation an “oil grab,” pointing to Venezuela’s position as home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves and the country’s long-standing tensions with U.S. energy interests. U.S. officials have denied such claims, framing the action as a law-enforcement and national security matter.
New York Congressman Adriano Espaillat sharply criticized the administration’s actions on constitutional grounds.
“While I strongly oppose the illegitimate regime of Nicolás Maduro, President Trump’s military action was a serious constitutional violation,” Espaillat said, noting that the U.S. Constitution grants Congress — not the president alone — the authority to declare war and approve military action.
Espaillat also called for an immediate and full briefing of Congress, warning that unilateral military action could carry long-term consequences for the region.
As debate intensifies over legality, motives, and global stability, Venezuela’s political future — and the true cost of the operation — remains uncertain.
Photo: Juan Barreto/AFP via Getty Images
Report: @kevin.shakil