The American public's apathy towards the US military's latest operation in Venezuela is a stark reflection of its growing disillusionment with foreign interventions. The capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, followed by a carefully planned strike involving dozens of aircraft, helicopters, and elite special forces, has been met with a sense of disconnection and skepticism.
A recent poll found that only 33% of Americans approve of the US removing Maduro, while 72% expressed concerns about US involvement in Venezuela. This low level of approval is unusual, even for new military operations. Historically, Americans have given new conflicts more leeway, with higher levels of public support. The current lack of faith from the beginning of the operation suggests that the American public has woken up to the reality of endless wars and their devastating consequences.
The Trump administration's response to critics has been swift and authoritarian, labeling doubters as enemies of the state. This kind of rhetoric is not uncommon in times of crisis, but it serves as a stark reminder of the erosion of democratic norms in the US.
Critics argue that the operation was wildly illegal and that the administration lied about its intentions. The strike's legality and transparency have been questioned by lawmakers and human rights groups alike.
However, what's even more concerning is the broader context of the US military's actions in Venezuela. The country has a history of failed regime change operations, with devastating consequences for both the US and the Venezuelan people. It's time for Americans to recognize that force alone doesn't dismantle networks or protect citizens. Instead, it often leads to chaos, violence, and humanitarian crises.
The American public is tired of pointless wars, and this fatigue is a blessing in disguise. It serves as a safety brake on reckless wars, reminding policymakers that there are consequences to their actions. As the US continues to grapple with the consequences of its own foreign interventions, it's essential to listen to the concerns of the American people.
The Intercept has long been critical of authoritarian governments and corrupt institutions. We're committed to holding those in power accountable and fighting for a more just and equitable world. But we can't do it alone. That's where you come in – will you help us expand our reporting capacity in time to hit the ground running in 2026?
A recent poll found that only 33% of Americans approve of the US removing Maduro, while 72% expressed concerns about US involvement in Venezuela. This low level of approval is unusual, even for new military operations. Historically, Americans have given new conflicts more leeway, with higher levels of public support. The current lack of faith from the beginning of the operation suggests that the American public has woken up to the reality of endless wars and their devastating consequences.
The Trump administration's response to critics has been swift and authoritarian, labeling doubters as enemies of the state. This kind of rhetoric is not uncommon in times of crisis, but it serves as a stark reminder of the erosion of democratic norms in the US.
Critics argue that the operation was wildly illegal and that the administration lied about its intentions. The strike's legality and transparency have been questioned by lawmakers and human rights groups alike.
However, what's even more concerning is the broader context of the US military's actions in Venezuela. The country has a history of failed regime change operations, with devastating consequences for both the US and the Venezuelan people. It's time for Americans to recognize that force alone doesn't dismantle networks or protect citizens. Instead, it often leads to chaos, violence, and humanitarian crises.
The American public is tired of pointless wars, and this fatigue is a blessing in disguise. It serves as a safety brake on reckless wars, reminding policymakers that there are consequences to their actions. As the US continues to grapple with the consequences of its own foreign interventions, it's essential to listen to the concerns of the American people.
The Intercept has long been critical of authoritarian governments and corrupt institutions. We're committed to holding those in power accountable and fighting for a more just and equitable world. But we can't do it alone. That's where you come in – will you help us expand our reporting capacity in time to hit the ground running in 2026?