The Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac has openly criticized the United States' military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
"No. I don't applaud any invasion. Not of Ukraine, not of Venezuela. None. People pay for the ideals (interests) of politicians. Civilians and young people become cannon fodder. It's 'justified' serial killing," Toirac expressed on Facebook.
He added, "I can't applaud any invasion. None. This world isn't in the 60s anymore. The balance is fragile. Superpowers are self-absorbed. Each focused on their own agenda. I can't applaud. Apologies to those who see it differently."
Toirac's post has sparked a flurry of mixed reactions.
"I disagree with you this time... The US intervened and had they not given the news, we wouldn't have known. How many casualties were there? How many civilians? Once the figures are known, we can talk, and maybe I'll understand you. But for now, I see what happened as something that HAD to happen to free Venezuela from the Chavista dictatorship," remarked Damicel Abreu in response.
Another user replied to the actor with irony, "Don't applaud. The Venezuelans living right there in Venezuela are already applauding. When you find a way to get rid of those people by talking and they agree to leave, then let me know, please."
Amidst the numerous critiques of his stance, Toirac countered, "Don't bother anymore. 'Communist' is the battle cry of fools who aren't the sharpest tools in the shed, and I have no interest in such people. Period. Good post to weed out the riffraff!"
Debate Over Invasion or Liberation
Most comments on the comedian's post argue that it's not an invasion but rather a "liberation of a people oppressed by a dictatorship. What Russia did to Ukraine is an invasion. Very different situations."
Trump on Venezuela: U.S. to Take Charge
Once again, Donald Trump has stirred the Latin American political scene with a bold declaration that has sparked reactions both within and outside Venezuela.
The former U.S. president declared that his administration would control Venezuela and its oil revenues following Maduro's capture, with Delcy Rodríguez poised to lead a transitional government under conditions set by Washington.
Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago residence, Trump stated that the United States would manage the country "until a fair democratic transition is achieved," citing Venezuela's "decrepit" infrastructure and emphasizing that oil resources would be managed to benefit the Venezuelan people and compensate the U.S. for past expropriations.
"We are going to run this country properly and ensure the Venezuelan people are taken care of," Trump said, not ruling out additional military actions if Chavista factions attempt to regain control.
One of the most controversial aspects of his statements was the direct mention of the Venezuelan vice president. According to Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in discussions with Delcy Rodríguez, describing her as willing to "do what's necessary to make Venezuela great again," echoing his famous campaign slogan.
Trump claimed that Rodríguez would take charge of a transitional government while the United States would secure safety and manage strategic resources, particularly oil. "We'll make a lot of money to take care of the country," he asserted, without specifying timelines or methods.
The American leader described Maduro's capture as "one of the best-planned operations since World War II," noting that the Chavista leader was arrested alongside his wife, Cilia Flores, and brought to the U.S. to face charges of drug trafficking and organized crime. He also mentioned Diosdado Cabello as another official who would face justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About U.S. Intervention in Venezuela
Why did Ulises Toirac criticize the U.S. operation in Venezuela?
Ulises Toirac criticized the U.S. operation because he opposes any form of invasion, believing that it harms civilians and serves political interests.
What is Trump's plan for Venezuela following Maduro's capture?
Trump plans for the U.S. to control Venezuela and its oil revenues, with Delcy Rodríguez leading a transitional government under U.S. conditions.
How has the public reacted to Ulises Toirac's statements?
Toirac's statements have sparked mixed reactions, with some agreeing and others strongly disagreeing with his position on the U.S. intervention in Venezuela.