Trump's Bold Move in Venezuela: A Call to Finish the Job

Introduction

The recent removal of Nicolás Maduro from power is more than just a political shift; it signifies a critical juncture for American foreign policy in Latin America. With a legacy of crises in the region, the imperative now is to cement this victory.

Decisive Leadership Amidst Hesitation

It took courage and clarity for President Trump to act when many hesitated. His unyielding approach to Venezuela was not reckless interventionism but a calculated act necessary to protect both American interests and regional stability. An indecisive stance would mean condemning millions of Venezuelans to endure starvation and repression.

Leaving Maduro unchecked would have handed Russia and China a foothold in our hemisphere, transforming Venezuela into a powerful base of anti-American influence.

The Landscape Before Us

Venezuela, under Maduro, was not merely mismanaged; it was a state rife with criminality, influenced by narco-traffickers and authoritarian operatives. This reality has loomed over Latin America for years, painting a grim picture for those who genuinely value democratic governance.

The Role of Global Adversaries

As the U.S. took steps to dismantle Maduro's regime, geopolitical rivals were far from passive. China acted as the financial lifeline propping up the crumbling economy, and Russia sought to entrench itself within Venezuela's military and energy sectors. This collusion didn't aim to rescue the Venezuelan people but to bolster their own positions against U.S. hegemony.

Lessons from History

The implications of America's initial inaction could have been devastating: long-term control of Venezuelan oil by adversaries would not only endanger energy security but signal a blatant failure to uphold democratic principles in our own backyard. As the old adage goes, freedom is not free—there is an enduring cost to defending it.

Transitioning Power: The Hard Truth

The aftermath of Maduro's ousting is complex. The current landscape is not simply ready for democracy; it requires careful management of power vacuums. Those urging immediate democratic reforms without understanding the violent realities on the ground might inadvertently invite chaos.

• Chavista militias are entrenched.
• Corrupt networks defy simple dismantling.
• Transitional figures from the old regime are often unavoidable.

A Pragmatic Path Forward

Despite misgivings, figures like Vice President Delcy Rodríguez may play a pivotal role in the transition. Her past ties to Chavismo lend her a unique capability to negotiate and stabilize the factions resistant to change. Balancing immediate security needs with democratic aspirations is crucial.

Stability Over Idealism

While engaging with elements of the past regime may feel morally complex, the end goal must remain clear: secure peace and order before transitioning to full democratic reforms. This is not about occupation; it's about stabilization, laying the groundwork for a thriving democracy.

The Bigger Picture

Global engagement is vital. If the U.S. retreats now, adversaries will swiftly reclaim lost ground, entrenching themselves back into Venezuelan affairs and exacerbating an already dire situation. We cannot afford to ignore the broader stakes at play—this is about more than just one country; it's about shaping a future in our hemisphere.

Conclusion: A Call to Endure

Now that Maduro is gone, we must fortify our commitment to the Venezuelan people. Our actions can determine whether Venezuela thrives as a beacon of freedom or succumbs to authoritarianism once again. As we stand at this pivotal moment in history, I urge us to remember the stakes involved. The world is watching—our allies and our adversaries alike. It's time to prove that American leadership can indeed reshape the course of history.