The strikes, codenamed ‘Operation Absolute Resolve’, highlighted issues such as violations of international law, violation of national sovereignty, unilateral armed aggression, and US imperialism, among other.
- India is unlikely to be impacted due to weakened bilateral engagement post 2019 US sanctions.
Probable reasons for the Strikes
- Resurrection of the Monroe Doctrine: To re-establish U.S. hegemony in the Americas.
- Countering China’s expansion in Latin America: China (world’s largest crude importer) has been biggest buyer of Venezuelan oil.
- Controlling Venezuela’s resources: It has the world’s largest oil reserves, large gas reserves, largest gold reserves in South America, etc.
- Others: To counter state-sponsored drug trafficking, spread of socialism, mass immigration, etc.
Potential consequences of the US Imperialism
- Historical Parallel: The 2003 invasion of Iraq, which was launched on "false premises to depose a dictator and 'export' democracy" but instead resulted in the destabilization of West Asia and the rise of groups like ISIS.
- Violations of International Law and Norms: The "apprehension and forced exile" of Venezuelan President is condemned as a "flagrant violation of international law" and a direct contravention of Article 2 of the UN Charter.
- Article 2 of UN charter legally mandated states to refrain from use of force with some exception such as self-defence.
- Bypassing the UN Security Council: The U.S. has circumvented the UN Security Council, positioning itself as "judge and executioner."
- Warning to International community: Failure of the post-Cold War hope for a "stable liberal order" is underscored by the actions of both the US and Russia (e.g., the ongoing conflict in Ukraine).
