Trump Issues Warnings to Multiple Countries Following Maduro Seizure
After the dramatic U.S. operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro over the weekend, former President Donald Trump has issued a series of sharp warnings to countries and territories across the Americas and beyond, raising concerns over U.S. foreign policy and potential military actions.
Trump’s statements, echoed by top officials in his administration, have targeted Greenland, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, and Iran. Below is a summary of his remarks and the reactions from the leaders involved:
1. Greenland
Trump reiterated his long-standing interest in Greenland, claiming the island is strategically important and that Russian and Chinese vessels are operating nearby. He suggested Denmark could not adequately secure the territory.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens Frederik Nielsen called Trump’s remarks “unacceptable and disrespectful,” emphasizing that Greenland is a democratic nation and not subject to geopolitical bargaining. Denmark, a NATO ally, also rejected any suggestion of U.S. annexation.
2. Colombia
Trump criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of supporting drug trafficking and suggesting that U.S. military action in Colombia “sounds good.”
Petro defended his government’s anti-drug operations, highlighting record cocaine seizures and targeted actions against armed groups. He also warned that Colombia would defend itself if threatened, despite his previous vow to renounce arms.
3. Cuba
Trump claimed Cuba may not require U.S. military intervention, stating the country’s economy is collapsing following Venezuela’s turmoil. He noted that Cuba relied heavily on Venezuelan oil.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio described Cuba as “a huge problem,” hinting at potential future action. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel responded defiantly, pledging continued solidarity with Venezuela.
4. Mexico
Trump accused Mexico of failing to control drug cartels, claiming narcotics were “pouring” across the U.S. border, and warned that military intervention could be necessary. He said he offered U.S. assistance to combat cartels.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected the idea of foreign intervention, emphasizing ongoing cooperation with the U.S. in combating fentanyl and other criminal activities, and dismissed the notion of an invasion.
5. Iran
Trump issued strong warnings to Iran amid ongoing anti-government protests, threatening action if protesters are harmed. He also accused Iran of trying to rebuild its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected the threats, asserting that the country would not yield to foreign pressure. These statements follow U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during heightened tensions in the region.
Analysts warn that Trump’s rhetoric could escalate tensions, reshape international relations, and increase the risk of broader conflicts following the Venezuelan operation.
