THE relations between the United States and Venezuela have never been of friend-ship and trust. Venezuela, an oil-rich nation of 29 million, has always preferred its independence and sovereignty over diplomatic slavery and economic dictation. Relations went worse when Hugo Chavez, the socialist former president, developed close ties with Russia, China and Iran. He ousted the two largest US oil companies from Venezuela, deepening the fissures.

Allegedly, the US supported a failed coup against Chavez, who had been a lead campaigner in Latin America for trade and ties with China. Trade volume between Latin America and China had surpassed the $500 billion mark.

USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, named after the 38th US president, is lurking along Venezuelan waters in the north while Trump is thumping his chest in Washington. It is the largest aircraft carrier in the world with 90 aircrafts on board. It is escorted by several other vessels, including USS Mahan and USS Winston Churchill. In addition, there have been more vessels reported in the area, including submarines.

In case of direct strikes against Venezuela, it is likely that people will present a solid unified response against the aggressor. Venezuela is not isolated diplomatically either. It has a vibrant nation and dependable economy. Trump needs to play his cards cautiously, or his pride may sink in the Caribbean Sea.

Farrukh Shahab
Lahore

Published in Dawn, January 27th, 2026