Bolton: John Bolton, a former US national security advisor, has criticized the recent US actions in Venezuela, labeling the capture of President Nicol¡s Maduro as a ‘hollow victory’ unless it leads to complete regime change. According to Bolton, the influence of Caracas’ international allies, particularly Russia and China, remains a significant challenge for the United States.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the United States conducted military operations in Caracas and other Venezuelan locations, resulting in the capture of President Maduro and his wife. These attacks followed airstrikes on what President Donald Trump’s administration identified as drug vessels involved in narcotics trafficking into the United States.

Bolton, who served during Trump’s first term, emphasized that while Maduro’s removal is a crucial step, it is insufficient. Key Maduro government officials, including Vice President Delcy Rodr­guez, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, and National Assembly President Jorge Rodr­guez, remain in power. Bolton criticized Trump’s understanding of the situation, referencing his remarks in Florida, and urged the US and Venezuelan opposition to dismantle the entire regime.

Bolton likened the situation to the 1990 US operation in Panama that captured Manuel Noriega, noting that while Panama saw a swift civilian transition, the same cannot be said for Venezuela due to the backing Maduro receives from Russia, Cuba, China, and Iran. He highlighted the importance of addressing these external supports to meet US objectives.

Expressing skepticism about the US’s current strategy, Bolton warned that without a comprehensive plan, the victory is merely symbolic. He recalled the failed 2019 coup attempt, attributing its failure to Russian and Cuban support for Maduro. Bolton expressed hope for a more successful outcome this time, despite past setbacks.