U.S. Military Supporting Venezuelan Rebels; Incident Highlights Challenges in New Phase of Democratization - Del Mundo - November 10th, 2024

[SSgt Waller]

U.S. Military Supporting Venezuelan Rebels; Incident Highlights Challenges in New Phase of Democratization

 

U.S. military forces are now operating in northern Venezuela in direct support of the Transitional Council’s rebel forces, following the death of Nicolás Maduro and the collapse of his loyalist government in much of the country. Marines and other U.S. personnel are working alongside rebel units to secure key infrastructure, stabilize contested regions, and prepare for humanitarian operations.

 

The Pentagon confirmed the mission, stating, “U.S. forces are operating in support of efforts to restore democratic governance, uphold security, and protect civilians in coordination with Venezuela’s internationally recognized Transitional Council upon their request.” American personnel can be seen alongside rebel checkpoints and facilities, operating under U.S. flags.

 

However, this new mission has not been without complications. During a routine security operation north of Chinu, a U.S. Marine vehicle reportedly opened fire on a civilian car after the driver failed to comply with checkpoint instructions. Though no injuries occurred, the vehicle was heavily damaged and the incident has sparked local frustration.

The civilian involved, Luis Herrera, a 62-year-old delivery driver, spoke angrily to local media: “I did nothing wrong. I slowed down and then even stopped the car about 200 metres from their checkpoint. They didn’t say stop, they didn’t say go, and then suddenly they opened fire, when I tried to turn around, like I’m some kind of criminal. I ran for my life!” Herrera expressed outrage that no one from the U.S. forces had apologized directly, adding, “I worked ten years to buy that car. Now it’s scrap metal because some foreign soldier got nervous. Additionaly, it took me hours to find my way out of the jungle and I missed my granddaughter's wedding in Montelibano because of all this!”

 

Mr. Herrera at the site of the alledged incident

 

U.S. military officials declined to comment directly on the reported incident near Chinu, citing policies against discussing ongoing operations. A Pentagon spokesperson stated, “We do not comment on the specifics of operational movements or engagements in areas where U.S. forces may be present in support roles. However, we take any allegations of harm to civilians seriously and expect all personnel to uphold the highest standards of conduct and established Rules of Engagement.”

Officials emphasized that any U.S. presence in the region is strictly focused on security cooperation and humanitarian preparation, not on direct engagement with Venezuelan civilians. Regarding compensation for the damaged vehicle, officials said such matters would be handled through appropriate local or transitional authorities, not through U.S. channels.

 

Mr. Herrera with his damaged vehicle

 

Editorial: Venezuela and the Perils of Another U.S. Intervention

The recent news that U.S. military forces are operating openly in northern Venezuela in support of the Transitional Council should give everyone reason to pause. History has shown time and again that even well-intentioned interventions can spiral beyond their original objectives, leaving behind instability, resentment, and unintended consequences.

 

The U.S. mission in Venezuela is framed as supporting democracy, protecting civilians, and helping stabilize a broken nation. These are admirable goals — but they sound strikingly familiar. From Vietnam and Iraq to Afghanistan, the pattern is clear: initial success breeds mission creep, which causes mistakes in turn causing friction with the local population. Eventually the backlash against foreign troops grows and they become seen not as liberators but occupiers.

Already, the signs are there. The minor incident at a checkpoint — a Marine vehicle opening fire on a civilian’s car — has sparked anger and distrust among Venezuelans simply trying to survive. For Luis Herrera, the civilian whose livelihood was wrecked through no fault of his own, this is not a humanitarian mission. It’s an occupying force breaking things and walking away. Multiply that frustration by a thousand small mistakes, and goodwill evaporates fast.

 

America’s military presence may help secure the Transitional Council’s fragile hold on power for now. But Washington must ask itself the harder question: how long will we stay, and at what cost? Stability cannot be imposed at gunpoint, and democracy rarely takes root under the shadow of foreign boots. If the U.S. is serious about helping Venezuela, it must ensure its presence does not sow the seeds of the next insurgency.

The road to hell is paved with good intentions.

Inés Suárez, On-Site Correspondent
Del Mundo

 

This article may also interest you: Two children killed by anti-personnel mines in the jungle near the town of Caucasia.