Brazil’s President Lula Warns of Potential Conflict Over U.S. Military Buildup Near Venezuela
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has expressed deep concern over the United States’ military buildup near Venezuela, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to avoid conflict. Speaking at the G20 Summit in South Africa, Lula stated, “This worries me enormously, and I intend to discuss this with President Trump because it concerns me. It is important that we try to find a solution before a conflict begins.” The U.S. deployment includes multiple warships and the largest aircraft carrier in the Caribbean, which has drawn criticism from Brazil and other regional actors.
The Pentagon’s deployment has been accompanied by controversial military operations, including attacks on boats it claims were involved in drug trafficking linked to Venezuela. However, Caracas has consistently denied these allegations, accusing Washington of using the accusations as a pretext for a potential regime change and resource grab. President Nicolas Maduro has not only dismissed the U.S. claims but also pointed to the geopolitical motivations behind them, warning that such actions could have long-term implications for regional stability.
The situation has escalated as Venezuela’s military has been placed on high alert, with an estimated 15,000 personnel involved in the country’s defense readiness. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez condemned the U.S. deployment, stating, “We strongly reject maneuvers, exercises, and deployments in our immediate area of interest. Enough of the threats, lies, slander, and imposition of power, all for the sake of preserving regional hegemonies.” This sentiment aligns with Brazil’s broader concerns about U.S. military presence in the region, which it views as a violation of regional sovereignty.
While the U.S. has not officially confirmed plans for direct military intervention, anonymous sources have suggested that covert operations are being considered, potentially aiming at the overthrow of President Maduro. Such measures, if taken, could have significant regional and international repercussions, fueling tensions and further complicating the already volatile geopolitical landscape in South America. Brazil’s diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation remain crucial as it seeks to balance its alliance with the U.S. against its own national interests and regional security concerns.