Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump has issued a stern warning to Venezuela’s interim leadership, stating that the United States may launch a second military operation if the country’s authorities “fail to behave” or do not comply with American demands.
This warning follows the dramatic U.S.-led military intervention in early January that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
The operation, which sparked global condemnation and raised concerns over international law violations, has now escalated tensions between Washington and several countries opposing U.S. involvement in Venezuela’s internal affairs.
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Speaking at a press briefing, President Trump defended the military action and accused the interim Venezuelan authorities of “obstruction, defiance, and refusal to cooperate” with U.S. plans to restore what he described as “true democratic order” in the country.
He added, “If they don’t behave, if they don’t cooperate with us, we’ll go back in. It’ll be quicker and stronger.”
Critics, including leaders from the African Union, Latin American bloc ALBA, and the UN Secretary-General, have warned that further U.S. military aggression risks deepening instability in the region and setting a dangerous precedent for unilateral foreign interventions.
The U.S. State Department has yet to clarify what conditions would trigger a second strike, but Trump’s comments have intensified diplomatic tensions as countries weigh their response to Washington’s posture in Venezuela.
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Analysts say the situation remains volatile, with international pressure mounting for a peaceful and lawful resolution that respects Venezuela’s sovereignty and international norms.