Massachusetts lawmakers have expressed strong opposition to the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the United States. The operation, carried out by an elite special forces unit, has raised significant constitutional and ethical concerns among U.S. legislators. President Donald Trump announced on March 10, 2024, that both Maduro and his wife had been apprehended and transported to New York to face narco-trafficking charges.
During a press conference, Trump stated that the U.S. would “run” Venezuela until a “safe, proper, and judicious transition” occurs. He emphasized that the U.S. plans to take control of Venezuela’s oil resources. This declaration has been met with fierce backlash from lawmakers who argue that such actions are unlawful and driven by ulterior motives.
Lawmakers Critique Trump’s Actions
Senator Ed Markey condemned the military operation, labeling it “unjustified and unauthorized.” He stated, “The Trump administration has been lying to Congress and the American people while carrying out illegal attacks on dozens of Venezuelan boats, seizing oil tankers, and now, conducting a large-scale land strike.” Markey further asserted that the operation amounts to an unconstitutional act of war, pointing out that Trump did not secure Congressional approval for these actions.
“This was all about regime change and all about oil,” Markey added. “This has nothing to do with our security and everything to do with Trump’s desire to rule with an iron fist.”
Senator Elizabeth Warren also criticized the military action, arguing that regardless of Maduro’s dictatorial reputation, the operation is unconstitutional. “What does it mean that the U.S. will ‘run’ Venezuela?” she questioned. “The American people voted for lower costs, not for Trump’s dangerous military adventurism overseas that won’t make the American people safer.”
Representative Jim McGovern voiced his disapproval, emphasizing that the operation lacked Congressional authorization. He described Trump’s actions as “unjustified” and pointed out the contradiction in funding military operations while neglecting essential services for Americans. “The vast majority of Americans opposed military action,” McGovern wrote on social media. “Trump just launched an unjustified, illegal strike on Venezuela.”
Military Veterans Speak Out
Representative Seth Moulton, a Marine veteran who served in Iraq, characterized the operation as “reckless.” He highlighted that Congress did not authorize military intervention and noted that Venezuela posed no imminent threat to the United States. “Wars cost more than trophies,” Moulton remarked, expressing concern over the potential consequences of such military actions.
The responses from Massachusetts lawmakers reflect a broader unease regarding the implications of U.S. military involvement in foreign nations, especially when such actions appear to prioritize political agendas over ethical considerations. As the situation evolves, the international community will be closely watching the U.S. response to this crisis and its potential impact on regional stability.
