Abducting Maduro, Opening a New "Middle Ages" Era
The U.S. act of abducting Maduro indicates that, in the eyes of the U.S., the inviolability of head-of-state is no longer respected. Indeed, the U.S. has also eliminated Gaddafi and plotted multiple times to assassinate Castro, but such open and brazen action is likely unprecedented.
The U.S. military strike against Venezuela is a practical test of the concept outlined in its national security strategy — the Western Hemisphere is America's "backyard," a priority interest for the U.S.
However, the subsequent situation will largely depend on who ultimately takes power in Venezuela. If a proxy supported by the opposition comes to power, the country may fall into a semi-divided state with weak control, becoming another "Libyan version" in Latin America. If the power is taken by military forces that have made backroom deals with Washington, the situation might be relatively stable.
At the same time, we have every reason to infer that this military action will inevitably intensify political polarization in South America — how to view American imperialism has always been a litmus test for measuring the political stance of countries in the region.
If the details of the operation claimed by the Trump administration are true, then the U.S. openly arresting, abducting, and deporting Maduro is also a practical verification of another concept. As early as during the US-Iran war, Trump had once vowed to carry out "targeted elimination" of Iranian leadership. Now, the inviolability of head-of-state is completely ignored; they can be randomly eliminated, abducted, or taken hostage — welcome to the new "Middle Ages" era.
Indeed, we can say that the U.S. has also eliminated Gaddafi, used others to overthrow Allende, and plotted multiple times to assassinate Fidel Castro... But acting in such an open and shameless manner is truly unprecedented.
In the context of U.S. domestic politics, the downfall of the current Venezuelan regime will, to some extent, enhance Marco Rubio's political standing, since opposing the Chávez faction has long been his core political stance. However, if this operation fails, it may consolidate Vance's position — as the most steadfast isolationist, Vance shares the views of the "Make America Great Again" movement supporters who advocate "non-interference in internal affairs." However, Vance also supports the U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere and the Monroe Doctrine, so there may not be substantial differences between them on this issue.
First applying pressure, then launching a lightning strike, and then retreating unscathed. This entire operation perfectly aligns with the logic of "Vanceism."
Original: toutiao.com/article/7591311964190687795/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.