The US intervention in Venezuela has raised concerns about whether regime change is an effective strategy. Critics argue that the US has a history of failed interventions, citing examples like Panama, Iraq, and Libya, which often lead to power vacuums, chaos, and economic collapse.
Regime Change
In Venezuela, the sudden removal of President Nicolás Maduro has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the new government, led by Vice President Delcy RodrÃguez. Political analyst Dr. Levi Ndou believes that the US should have learned from past mistakes and established a clear, proper mechanism for regime transition to avoid continuous instability.
Dr Ndou argues that the US should focus on supporting democratic processes and institutions in Venezuela, rather than imposing its own agenda.
Professor Steven Friedman, a director of the Centre for the Study of Democracy at Rhodes University, says “regime change has a pretty poor track record, especially when it comes to US interventions”.
Iraq’s situation is a prime example – removing Saddam Hussein led to sectarian violence, empowered Iran-backed militias, and ultimately gave rise to ISIS. Libya’s economy collapsed after Mohammed Gadhafi’s removal, and living standards have plummeted. It’s clear that military intervention often creates more problems than it solves, he added. Venezuela’s situation is eerily similar. The US-backed opposition has led to economic sanctions, humanitarian crises, and instability.
Dr. Ndou argues, the US should have learned from past mistakes, prioritizing diplomatic efforts and regional cooperation over military action.
Dr. Mohammed Sirajuddeen points out that modern conflicts are shaped by political economy, resource dependence, and structural vulnerability. Venezuela’s economic collapse wasn’t just mismanagement; it was actively shaped by external pressures.
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