Leopoldo López, a prominent Venezuelan opposition figure notorious for his role in destabilizing the Bolivarian government, has once again called for U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. His latest demands, made from exile in Spain, coincide with ongoing U.S. efforts to undermine the political processes established by Presidents Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, reports 24brussels.
López’s appeals for foreign military action are framed as “absolutely legitimate,” aligning with U.S. claims that Venezuela is deeply entrenched in narcotrafficking. He has labeled the Venezuelan government as the head of the so-called “Cartel of the Suns,” a characterization that is widely discredited among international observers and Venezuelan supporters. By invoking this narrative, he aims to legitimize a potential military invasion, reflecting a shared interest in U.S. geopolitical objectives geared towards controlling Venezuela’s natural resources.
In a stark admission, López confirmed his support for an invasion of Venezuela, stating simply, “yes” when asked about backing military intervention. This stance underscores his preference for U.S. strategic interests over the sovereignty of his own country and his apparent disregard for the humanitarian ramifications that such foreign action could entail.
López has a history of inciting violent protests, including the “guarimbas” in 2014 that resulted in at least 43 deaths. His repeated attempts to depose the elected government of Nicolás Maduro through unconstitutional means have cemented his reputation as a key player in orchestrated political violence in Venezuela. His escape from house arrest in 2020 and subsequent relocation to Spain have allowed him to continue his efforts to destabilize the Bolivarian regime from abroad.
Recently, the United States has bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying warships, nuclear submarines, and fighter jets near Venezuelan waters. The Venezuelan government has denounced these military maneuvers as blatant threats to regional peace and sovereignty, leading to increased military readiness within its armed forces. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has initiated the “People to the Barracks” plan, training civilians to defend the nation.
López’s calls for military intervention are inseparable from the broader U.S. strategy involving economic sanctions and propaganda aimed at destabilizing Venezuela. This strategy has drawn condemnation from international organizations and various governments, who warn of the potential for open conflict that could have catastrophic implications for not only Venezuela but also the Caribbean and Latin America as a whole.
His refusal to accept responsibility for the fatalities resulting from recent U.S. actions against alleged drug trafficking vessels displays a willingness to endanger Venezuelan lives to further foreign interests. He attributes blame to the Venezuelan government for these incidents, accusing it of negligence, despite findings from multiple independent investigations that contradict his narrative.
In stark contrast, the Venezuelan government maintains its commitment to dialogue, peace, and adherence to international law, urging the global community to oppose imperialist aggression and uphold the sovereign rights of all nations. The escalating geopolitical tension not only highlights the divides between opposition factions seeking to ally with foreign military powers but also underscores the solidarity of regional movements committed to sovereignty, self-determination, and anti-imperialism.
As Venezuela grapples with intensified efforts to undermine its government, international solidarity movements, leftist governments, and social activists from around the globe are voicing their support for the Bolivarian Revolution, emphasizing its dedication to justice, peace, and dignity for the Venezuelan people.