Former US National Security Adviser John Bolton has expressed approval of the US administration’s decision to remove Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, citing compliance with international law. However, Bolton noted that President Donald Trump has not succeeded in replacing the authoritarian regime. Bolton also dismissed Trump’s claim that US oil companies would establish themselves in Venezuela, calling it unrealistic. He cautioned against any potential annexation of Greenland, warning that such a move could have severe consequences for the United States and the NATO alliance.
Bolton highlighted Trump’s endeavors to end the conflict in Ukraine, suggesting that Trump’s attempts to broker a deal between Russia and Ukraine may not yield a satisfactory resolution. Bolton emphasized the need for substantial investments in Venezuela’s oil infrastructure to enhance export capacity, cautioning that the current political uncertainty in Venezuela could deter foreign companies from committing significant capital. He underscored the complexity of the situation and the challenges associated with achieving a stable resolution.
When discussing the US intervention in Venezuela, Bolton emphasized the importance of distinguishing between legitimate and illegitimate leadership. He justified the US action as a response to Maduro’s alleged electoral fraud and oppressive regime. Bolton rejected the notion that capturing a leader could violate international norms if the leader’s legitimacy is in question. He pointed out that the situation in Venezuela differs significantly from other geopolitical scenarios, such as Russia’s actions in Ukraine or potential Chinese aggression towards Taiwan.
