Did North Korea Just Condemn the US for Capturing Venezuela's Maduro?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Seoul, Jan 4 (NationPress) North Korea has vehemently condemned the US military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, labeling his removal as the most egregious violation of sovereignty.
The North Korean Foreign Ministry issued this statement following US President Donald Trump's announcement that Maduro and his spouse had been apprehended during a significant military operation.
According to reports from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the ministry stated it strongly denounces the US's hegemonic actions in Venezuela, which it describes as a severe infringement on national sovereignty.
The capture unfolded after a sustained campaign by the Trump administration to pressure the Venezuelan leader, as per the Yonhap News Agency.
This action aligns with the US's broader strategy to reaffirm its influence in the Western Hemisphere while addressing drug trafficking issues, although some critics have highlighted that it occurred without congressional approval, potentially heightening regional tensions.
The Foreign Ministry remarked, “This incident exemplifies the rogue and brutal conduct of the US, a reality the global community has repeatedly observed over time,” as reported by KCNA.
It also urged the international community to acknowledge the gravity of the situation in Venezuela and to protest against the US's persistent violations of other nations' sovereignty.
Following his capture, Maduro found himself in a notorious federal prison in New York after being seized by US forces at a military base in Venezuela, where he had previously been mocking President Trump.
As he was led into the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) office, he addressed the camera with sarcasm, stating, “Good night. Happy New Year.”