Colombia has mobilized its armed forces in response to the United States military operation in Venezuela, with President Gustavo Petro expressing concern about a potential massive influx of refugees following the Saturday strikes. The operation, which resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, has created ripple effects across South America.
Petro joined other leftist Latin American leaders in condemning the US intervention as a violation of international law, warning that such actions undermine multilateralism and regional stability. Colombia’s military mobilization reflects practical concerns about border security and humanitarian challenges that could arise from further destabilization of its neighbor.
The captured Venezuelan president and his wife are being transported to New York to face drug trafficking charges, according to US officials. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have confirmed the legal proceedings, while President Trump stated the couple is currently aboard a ship en route to the United States.
The international response has been sharply divided, with major powers including China, Russia, France, and Brazil condemning the operation as illegal. UN Secretary General António Guterres warned of a dangerous precedent being set, while European leaders called for respect of international law despite not having recognized Maduro’s government.
Right-wing South American leaders like Argentina’s Javier Milei celebrated the operation, creating a clear ideological divide in regional responses. Security experts have questioned whether removing Maduro will lead to democratic transformation or simply reshuffle leadership within Venezuela’s existing power structure, with some noting that the Chavista movement survived the transition from Hugo Chávez to Maduro and may persist beyond the current leader’s removal.
Colombia Mobilizes Forces as US-Venezuela Crisis Threatens Regional Stability
