Not about drugs or democracy, but oil, says Kamala Harris on Trump over Maduro's capture

Former US Vice President Kamala Harris has publicly condemned President Donald Trump’s military operation in Venezuela, branding the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and related strikes as “unlawful and unwise.” 

Harris, who acknowledged Maduro as a “brutal” and “illegitimate” dictator, took to the social media platform X to denounce the Trump administration’s actions, warning they do not make America safer, stronger, or more affordable, and risk destabilizing the broader region. 

In her statement, Harris cautioned that the escalation in US military engagement, which critics argue amounts to an act of aggression, could lead to chaos rather than security.

She suggested that Trump’s strategy appeared driven more by oil interests and ego than by legitimate national security objectives, echoing concerns from global and regional leaders about the legality and motive behind the strikes. 

Also read: After Venezuela operation, Trump signals possible action against Mexico, Cuba, Colombia

Context: US Strikes and Capture of Maduro

Over the weekend, the United States launched airstrikes on Venezuela, including around the capital Caracas, in a campaign code-named Operation Absolute Resolve. This culminated in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were subsequently transported to New York and are reportedly facing charges in US courts.

Trump has defended the strikes as necessary and framed them as part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking and narco-terrorism. He also declared that the US is prepared to “run” Venezuela temporarily to ensure a transition, if needed, and hinted at continued military involvement if required. 

Reactions and International Backlash

Harris’s criticism aligns with other prominent voices, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who have also rebuked Trump’s actions as dangerous and fear-inducing. 

Globally, leaders from Brazil, Mexico, China, and parts of Europe have expressed deep concern about US intervention, stressing respect for sovereignty and international law. Meanwhile, countries such as Argentina offered support, highlighting the fractious international response. 

As tensions remain high, the situation unfolds with Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming interim leadership, and the United Nations signaling serious concern over potential precedents this conflict sets for global diplomacy and military engagement.