As the dust settles from the dramatic U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro, a voice of military experience is sounding a note of caution. Retired Gen. Wesley Clark, the former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO who led forces during the Kosovo War, told CNN on Saturday that deploying American troops to protect Venezuela's vast oil fields could prove far harder than it seems.]
"In the past, countries haven’t liked it if big powers come in just to steal resources," Clark said, even as President Trump frames the oil as historically tied to U.S. investments before nationalization. "It’s going to be difficult to just hold on to the oil in a country that could turn hostile."
His words carry weight – Clark knows occupation challenges firsthand. With Venezuela's population potentially resentful of foreign control, guerrilla groups lingering, and Maduro loyalists possibly rallying resistance, securing sprawling oil infrastructure across a nation the size of Texas and Alaska combined isn't a simple task.
This comes amid Vice President Delcy Rodríguez's fierce condemnation of the U.S. operation as a "savage attack" on sovereignty, demanding Maduro's release. Clark noted the aftermath remains "still unclear," hinting at unpredictable fallout.
History echoes here: Past U.S. interventions in Latin America – from the Banana Wars to more recent chapters – often faced local backlash when perceived as resource grabs.
Trump's plan to have U.S. companies revive and profit from Venezuela's reserves – the world's largest – aims to fund reconstruction without taxpayer cost. But Clark's warning reminds us: Military might can topple leaders, but winning hearts, securing terrain, and avoiding quagmire? That's the real challenge.
For Venezuelans weary from crisis, the hope is stability and prosperity. Yet as boots-on-ground talk swirls, this expert insight underscores the risks. In a region scarred by interventions, proceeding carefully could mean the difference between renewal and resentment.
What do you think – bold move for energy security, or recipe for trouble? The world is watching.