Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has expressed deep concern over the U.S. military buildup near Venezuela, warning of potential conflict. During a speech at the G20 Summit in South Africa, Lula emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the situation.
The U.S. has stationed warships, including the largest aircraft carrier, in the Caribbean, raising tensions. Lula sought to address the issue with President Trump, urging a diplomatic approach. The U.S. military’s actions, including controversial attacks on vessels accused of drug trafficking, have prompted Venezuela to deny the allegations.
Meanwhile, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez criticized the U.S. deployment, accusing Washington of threatening regional stability. The U.S. military’s deployment has also drawn the attention of regional powers, who are concerned about the potential for conflict.
Reuters reported on Sunday that Washington is poised to begin operations against Venezuela in the coming days, citing anonymous U.S. officials. Clandestine operations would likely kick off the effort, and the overthrow of President Nicolas Maduro is under consideration, the agency cited its sources as saying.
Maduro has consistently denied U.S. allegations of drug trafficking, arguing that Washington was using the claims as a pretext for a regime-change and resource-grab operation.
The Venezuelan military has been placed on high alert in response to the U.S. buildup, which reportedly involves about 15,000 personnel. Padrino Lopez condemned the U.S. deployment, calling it a threat to regional stability.