Venezuelan Opposition Leader Anticipates Regime Change Amid U.S. Tensions

Venezuelan opposition leader David Smolansky expressed strong belief that the regime of President Nicolas Maduro is on the verge of collapse, especially in light of increased U.S. military presence in the region. According to CBS News, Smolansky remarked that the pressure exerted by the U.S. is crucial and indicated ongoing communication with the U.S. administration regarding strategies for regime change. He emphasized that he and fellow opposition leader Maria Corina Machado are optimistic about a potential transition occurring soon.

In response to the heightened U.S. military activities, including the deployment of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier, the Maduro administration launched a large-scale military exercise involving around 200,000 troops. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino stated that this exercise is a demonstration of Venezuela's capability to defend itself, labeling U.S. military actions as aggressive and accusing them of killing defenseless people under the guise of anti-drug operations. The U.S. has been conducting naval operations targeting alleged drug trafficking vessels, which Maduro and his officials argue are illegal and have raised concerns among neighboring countries, including Colombia.

Former national security advisor John Bolton critiqued the effectiveness of U.S. military strikes in the Caribbean, suggesting that while they may excite some leaders, they do not effectively destabilize Maduro's regime. Bolton warned that such actions could instead fortify Maduro's alliances with other nations like Russia and Cuba. He called for a more comprehensive U.S. strategy that includes bipartisan support and enhanced resources for the Venezuelan opposition to facilitate a successful regime change.

As tensions escalate, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has expressed disapproval of the U.S. strikes, ordering a halt to intelligence sharing with the U.S. until the attacks cease. Petro emphasized the need to prioritize human rights over drug enforcement, underscoring a growing rift within Latin America regarding U.S. policies in the region. The situation remains volatile, with Smolansky's predictions of imminent change juxtaposed against the Maduro government's robust military readiness and international support.