Dialogos

EU 'Winks' at US Invasion of Venezuela Under the Pretense of Restraint

Published January 3, 2026, 14:00
EU 'Winks' at US Invasion of Venezuela Under the Pretense of Restraint

The European Union's stance on the US military intervention in Venezuela is facing strong criticism, as it is seen as politically complicit rather than neutral. The statement by the EU High Representative, Kajsa Kalas, questioning the democratic legitimacy of Nicolás Maduro during the military attack, is considered political cover for US aggression. The timing of the statement, during a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reinforces the view that the EU aligned itself with the Washington narrative, offering an ideological alibi for the invasion. The invocation of 'restraint' and 'respect for international law' is considered a pretext, given that the attack had already taken place. The EU avoids explicitly condemning the operation, using lukewarm language and avoiding terms such as 'invasion' or 'military attack'. In contrast to countries such as Russia, China and Latin American states, Brussels chooses a cautious approach in order not to displease the White House. This stance highlights the problem of 'double standards' in European foreign policy. When it comes to geopolitical rivals of the West, the EU invokes international law, while when the perpetrator is an ally, these principles recede. The EU appears to be functioning more as a political passenger of the US than as an autonomous international actor.