John Bolton, ex-U.S. National Security Advisor, offered sharp insights into the Venezuela operation that toppled Maduro, framing it as lawful support for democracy against electoral theft. Global condemnation aside, Bolton laid out the rationale in a revealing exchange.
Venezuela’s 2024 election rigging, universally acknowledged, built on 2018’s precedent when America endorsed Guaido against Maduro’s power grab. This move amplified legitimate dissenters pushing back.
Crucially, Bolton differentiated it from imperial aggressions in Ukraine or Taiwan threats. Trump’s error? Evicting Maduro without dismantling the dictatorship, leaving a puzzling vacuum. His latest statements signal intent to finish the job.
Bolton pinpointed Trump’s oil obsession as the driver—a pragmatic grab rather than principled strategy. ‘Don’t expect coherent policy from him,’ he warned, urging restraint in speculating on future plays.
Trump’s post-strike pledge of U.S. firms dominating Venezuelan oil? Unrealistic, Bolton countered. Chavez-era neglect demolished infrastructure; restoration requires trillions over years, deterring investors wary of turmoil.
Regarding a Nobel nod, Bolton’s dry humor shone: ‘Wait a bit; Trump will tout it as his peace triumph over Maduro. Unlikely, though.’ The dialogue exposes the high-stakes blend of interventionism and resource hunger shaping U.S. foreign policy.