Leaders in Greenland, Mexico, and Colombia are upholding their countries’ sovereignty and resisting pressure from the U.S. following the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela. This unexpected move has surprised global leaders, particularly those nations that have faced U.S. intervention threats.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejected interference in other countries’ internal affairs. She emphasized Mexico’s independence and cooperation with the U.S. on drug trafficking and security issues, despite President Trump’s hints at potential military actions in Mexico against drug cartels. Sheinbaum stressed that Mexico is a sovereign nation where the people govern, advocating for cooperation while rejecting subordination and intervention.
Analysts note Mexico’s compliance with U.S. requests, with increased efforts against cartels under Sheinbaum’s administration, including more arrests, drug seizures, and deportations. Warning against military intervention in Mexico, political analyst Carlos Pérez Ricart highlighted the risks of disrupting this cooperation, leaving the U.S. without a crucial partner.
Despite the slim likelihood, Pérez Ricart and other analysts have not ruled out U.S. military intervention, citing the unpredictable nature of U.S. decision-making. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concerns over the U.S.’s disregard for international law, cautioning about potential precedents in global relations.
In Colombia, President Gustavo Petro vehemently opposed any U.S. strikes targeting drug traffickers in his country. He emphasized Colombia’s record seizures of cocaine and warned of dire consequences, including harm to children, if the U.S. were to carry out strikes against drug trafficking groups and rebels. Petro, a former left-wing guerrilla member, vowed to take up arms again if Colombia faces U.S. attacks.
In a separate development, Greenland’s Prime Minister reassured the public about the country’s relationship with the U.S., dismissing fears of an immediate American takeover despite heightened interest from Trump. Greenland’s strategic importance, including its location and mineral wealth, aligns with U.S. interests in bolstering defense capabilities and reducing reliance on Chinese imports.
Greenland, though not a NATO member, falls under Denmark’s alliance coverage. Denmark’s Prime Minister reaffirmed Greenland’s stance against U.S. integration and emphasized the country’s sovereignty. European leaders, including the British Prime Minister and the German Foreign Minister, echoed support for Greenland and Denmark’s self-determination, with a commitment to upholding national sovereignty principles.
The international community continues to monitor developments in the aftermath of Maduro’s removal, with a focus on respecting countries’ independence and sovereignty.