US Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela: Europe's Diplomatic Tightrope

They're shaking hands, but the underlying tension is palpable. While the US has executed a bold military operation to capture Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, its European allies are choosing to straddle the middle ground. The shock of the operation hasn't led to a direct condemnation from Brussels, revealing a complex diplomatic dilemma.

Operation Absolute Resolve: Maduro Held in US Custody

According to reports from the South China Morning Post, the Trump administration launched "Operation Absolute Resolve" over the weekend. The mission successfully captured Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are now being held at a detention center in Brooklyn. This unprecedented move has sent shockwaves through the international community.

China has already voiced its strong opposition, demanding the immediate release of the couple. In contrast, European nations—already strained by the ongoing war in Ukraine—are attempting to distance themselves from Washington's unilateral military action without offering explicit criticism.

Europe's Dilemma Over the US Military Action in Venezuela

The European Union's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, posted on X that the EU has repeatedly questioned Maduro's legitimacy. However, she emphasized that "the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be respected," calling for restraint from all parties.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed this sentiment, noting that Maduro had led his country into ruin. Analysts suggest that while Europe doesn't agree with Trump's methods, it seems to agree with the ultimate objective of seeing Maduro removed from power. This "silent agreement" highlights the difficulty of maintaining a rules-based order when a major ally acts outside of it.