Mike Pompeo: US Will “Take Action” In Support of Venezuelan Democracy

We’ve known for over a week now that the Trump administration was planning to incite the equivalent of the fake gas attacks in Syria in Venezuela this weekend:

“Caracas, Venezuela (CNN)Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro severed diplomatic relations with Colombia on Saturday as violence broke out along the two countries’ borders, where international aid intended for Venezuela is awaiting transport.

After opposition leader Juan Guaido named Saturday as the deadline for the aid to cross the border, Maduro vowed to stop the supplies from coming into the country, calling the plan part of a coup attempt.

These are the highlights from Saturday:

• At least five people were killed in clashes with Venezuelan security forces on Saturday, National Assembly Representative Adriana Pichardo told CNN, without giving further details. Pichardo, who supports Guaido, said 51 people were arrested. CNN cannot independently confirm the number of fatalities.

• The Colombian foreign minister said 285 people were hurt, with 37 requiring hospitalization, after the Venezuelan National Guard fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters near the Colombian border.

• Trucks carrying supplies were blocked at most spots, but two trucks carrying Brazilian humanitarian aid crossed into Venezuela on Saturday without incident, the office of communications for the Brazilian presidency said.

• At a rally in the capital of Caracas, Maduro said he was breaking relations with neighboring Colombia and threatened the United States with “the strength of the Venezuelan armed forces.”
• Opposition leader Guaido vowed Saturday night that “We will not stop until we see freedom in Venezuela.”

• US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo attacked Maduro on Twitter, saying, “What kind of a sick tyrant stops food from getting to hungry people? The images of burning trucks filled with aid are sickening.”

I contemplated starting a live thread for the event last night.

No one is surprised that several people died in Venezuela today. This wasn’t a spontaneous event. It was a coordinated neocon propaganda show on the border with the Colombia. Russia has been warning that a US coup in Venezuela was in the works for weeks now.

We’ve been watching it build up to this point since January when the Trump administration announced that Juan Guaidó is the interim president of Venezuela. It is not like there was an election and Maduro lost and Guaidó won. Washington just decided to install Guaidó as president of Venezuela in the same way that it decided to overthrow Gadaffi in Libya and Assad in Syria.

In case you missed it, Elliot Abrams was hired as ‘special envoy’ to Venezuela. The Trump administration used its ‘national emergency’ powers to impose more sanctions on Venezuela’s oil industry. President Maduro went on Facebook Live to appeal to the American people to stop the planned coup. The Trump administration began to encourage the Venezuelan military to topple Maduro. Last week, President Trump gave a speech in Florida that was solely about regime change in Venezuela. The Trump administration has been steadily rolling this out for a month now.

Marco Rubio has tweeted hundreds of times about Venezuela:

Interim President of #Venezuela @jguaido announces the humanitarian aid trucks are now in Venezuelan territory. The #MaduroRegime is trying to prevent them from passing but will not be able to overcome the irreversible decision to live in freedom. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria https://t.co/F9mlIrfS8F

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

#MaduroRegime has fired into territory of #Colombia. Receiving reports of injuries after this attack on sovereign Colombian territory.

The United States WILL help Colombia confront any aggression against them. https://t.co/lcF1uB9NB4

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Maduro regime Col. Cristian Morales is commanding the Regime response in #Tachira with the help of Cuban agents. We know who you are & we know what you are doing. https://t.co/lcF1uB9NB4

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

URGENT: #MaduroRegime National Police has retreated at the Ureña bridge on the Colombia / #Venezuela border #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria https://t.co/1azYZtNpvN

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

#URGENT: Pro-Maduro gang,at the direction of Cuban agents have used firearms against civilian aid workers at the Simón Bolívar bridge.

Military leaders are cowards if they stand by & allow foreign govt & street criminals to kill their own people. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

#Urgent #VENEZUELA The situation in Santa Elena is very serious,there is repression with firearms against disarmed civilian population in effort to stop entry of humanitarian aid. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria https://t.co/Zm0y69bvrP

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Watch these young members of the National Police cry as civilians beg them to allow them to bring humanitarian aid into #Venezuela.

https://t.co/xz1lH8K0Ez via @cnnee

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

As you watch this video of aid workers moving forward on National Police, keep in mind they are doing this to block food & medicine.

Can anyone recall so much effort ever used to block food & medicine? https://t.co/Lu0hpikd9e

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Maduro National Police set fire to an aid truck carrying food & medicine while people in #Venezuela starve. #23FAyudaHumanitaria https://t.co/IqulOWuP5E

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

#ALERT #MaduroRegime has begun a massive violent crackdown on the border with the Brazil. I have been informed 4 civilians dead & 24 injured as of this moment. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Another member of National Guard just crossed border to join @jguaido. So far over 23 former members of regime forces have switched sides today. #23f https://t.co/RyI4ZQJjvC

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

After regime set fire to an aid truck inside #Venezuela civilians risk their lives to save humanitarian aid. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria https://t.co/DqHycg3Sf5

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Another 3 members of National Guard have crossed over & abandoned the #MaduroRegime. https://t.co/dPR8nwPMzP

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

A young was killed after being shot in the head in #Venezuela by forces loyal to #MaduroRegime https://t.co/adWDjAOGAI

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Members of National Guard continue to abandon #MaduroRegime https://t.co/06sY8XP66s

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Each of the trucks burned by Maduro carried 20 tons of food & medicine. This is a crime & if international law means anything he must pay a high price for this. #23FAyudaHumanitaria https://t.co/IrGzrOUX09

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Another member of Natl Guard leaves #Maduro. This is why he is increasingly relying on Pro-Regime gangs. https://t.co/tUIAVDANfe

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Reports of a National Guard unit that has run out of munitions & is now surrounded by the population. #23Feb https://t.co/RlwWNoriYf

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

A member of the Pro-Maduro gang (colectivo) has been captured having crossed into #Colombia & is being held by Colombian security forces.

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Another one… https://t.co/4ubp7aiOZU

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

26 members of regime forces deserted Maduro so far today. The Venezuelan side of the border with #Colombia is now almost entirely controlled at this point by Pro-Maduro gangs & Cuban regime advisors. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Maduro gunships are threatening to fire on a ship sailing from #PuertoRico which is in international waters with 300 tons of food & medicine & at least 6 U.S. citizens on board. #barcopuertorico

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

Este tipo de verdad piensa que el y ellos pueden con nosotros?

El ni puede viajar fuera del pais ahora. Lo volvemos a repetir. Lo vas a perder todo y terminas en una carcel o en Turkia porque ni a Cuba puedes ir. pic.twitter.com/o1lMUM31ZF

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

At this moment over 60 former Maduro security officials have abandoned his regime at last count. #23FAvalanchaHumanitaria

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 23, 2019

They may not realize it yet but today the Maduro Regime made it easier to isolate them internationally.

After today it will be difficult for nations to remain neutral. And for their allies to continue to support it defend them. (Cont)

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

The whole world saw the regime use security forces & gangs to injure & kill unarmed civilians.

The whole world saw them set fire to 3 trucks carrying food & other humanitarian aid.

They will soon realize just how badly they overplayed their hand today.

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

Today #MaduroRegime killed unarmed citizens of their own country to keep food & medicine from entering

They they celebrated murder & burning of trucks carrying aid as a victory

The world & those inside #Venezuela will reflect on what happened today & it will give rise to action

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

Another member of National Guard has abandoned Maduro tonight.

And he informs that the orders given was to “massacre the people” & that Maduro unleashed gangs & prisoners from the jails to carry out the attacks. #23F https://t.co/aqS3gq2eHo

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

3 more National Guard members abandon #MaduroRegime on #23F https://t.co/LwnMl25Ax1

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

After discussions tonight with several regional leaders it is now clear that the grave crimes committed today by the Maduro regime have opened the door to various potential multilateral actions not on the table just 24 hours ago. https://t.co/MvqFwB6E6d

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

Grave situation developing right now inside of #Colombia.@freddysuperlano a member of the National Assembly of #Venezuela was poisoned this morning at breakfast inside of Colombia & is in serious condition at the hospital.

His assistant Carlos Salinas has died from poisoning.

— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 24, 2019

Jeb Bush and Hillary Clinton are in agreement:

What triggered the escalation of US-Venezuela policy? https://t.co/tSBUmr0uPk via @Univision @dadams7308 Well written piece. President Trump deserves credit for ramping up the pressure on Maduro. As does Senator Rubio for his solid advice to the administration.

— Jeb Bush (@JebBush) February 23, 2019

I urge Nicolás Maduro to allow humanitarian aid inside Venezuela’s borders peacefully. People are in need of life-saving medicines, children are subsisting on one meal a day, and a peaceful delivery of food and supplies is to the benefit of all.

— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) February 23, 2019

Kamala Harris is salivating at the possibility of more Venezuela refugees:

What’s happening in Venezuela is a crisis. The people who have fled Maduro’s dictatorial regime deserve safety and protection. As President, I would immediately extend TPS status to Venezuelans. It’s the right thing to do. America must show moral leadership in this hemisphere.

— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) February 23, 2019

Bernie Sanders is on board:

The people of Venezuela are enduring a serious humanitarian crisis. The Maduro government must put the needs of its people first, allow humanitarian aid into the country, and refrain from violence against protesters.

— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) February 23, 2019

John Bolton is giving ultimatums:

Venezuela’s military has a choice: Embrace democracy, protect civilians, and allow in humanitarian aid; or face even more sanctions and isolation. https://t.co/KNdncJbPDH

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

Masked thugs, civilians killed by live rounds, and the burning of trucks carrying badly-needed food and medicine. This has been Maduro’s response to peaceful efforts to help Venezuelans. Countries that still recognize Maduro should take note of what they are endorsing. pic.twitter.com/KlSebd2M5a

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

Venezuelan military members are given amnesty by Interim President Juan Guiado. They can now stand proud to work on behalf of a democratic Venezuela, for the protection and prosperity of all Venezuelans. https://t.co/JsdXXXWG8O

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

Thousands of Venezuelans are peacefully gathering near La Carlota Air Base in Caracas, demanding the Venezuelan military support democracy & the delivery of humanitarian aid. A stream of military officials have decided to stand by the people & against Maduro throughout the day. pic.twitter.com/1zKQHBn6DL

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

The U.S. has provided critically needed aid for the people of Venezuela. Now is the time for Venezuelan military to allow aid through the border. As Interim President Guaido said today “Those who accompany us to save the lives of Venezuelans are true patriots.” https://t.co/Ha3PZFBjoF

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

These four Venezuelan military members chose to stand with the people today, were honored by their Commander-in-Chief Juan Guaido, and welcomed by the democratic world. The rest of the Venezuelan military should follow. https://t.co/K2pzQlJgFQ

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

Indigenous leader gives lesson in civility to General José Miguel Montoya, in charge of the southern Venezuelan border. Tells him he must stand by the people, not kill them, and that he should call for an end to the usurpation by Maduro and allow aid in. https://t.co/EYOgZKYuqQ

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

Today, Venezuelans across the country are assembling in response to human suffering, and are demanding the Venezuelan military allow humanitarian aid into Venezuela. Leaders across the western hemisphere and the world stand united in support of that demand. pic.twitter.com/lkpahTRzi5

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

President Guaido is personally leading the effort to bring aid to Venezuelan people. The military has a chance to protect and assist the people of Venezuela, not Maduro and a band of thieves. Choose the road of democracy. pic.twitter.com/5dV4GELiry

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) February 23, 2019

President Trump says that Venezuelans are “standing at the threshold of history, ready to reclaim their country”:

God Bless the people of Venezuela!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2019

The people of Venezuela stand at the threshold of history, ready to reclaim their country – and their future…. pic.twitter.com/ajxd1EN64c

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2019

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo goes so far as to say that the US will “take action” against those who oppose the restoration of democracy in Venezuela:

At @jguaido’s request, the second tranche of U.S. humanitarian aid landed in Cucuta today. This aid must be allowed to enter #Venezuela and reach people in need. #EstamosUnidosVE pic.twitter.com/E2NGNz4CfW

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 22, 2019

The U.S. condemns the attacks on civilians in #Venezuela perpetrated by Maduro’s thugs. These attacks have resulted in deaths and injuries. Our deepest sympathies to the families of those who have died due to these criminal acts. We join their demand for justice. #EstamosUnidosVE pic.twitter.com/YW7hE3y1Ll

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 24, 2019

We denounce Maduro’s refusal to let humanitarian assistance reach #Venezuela. What kind of a sick tyrant stops food from getting to hungry people? The images of burning trucks filled with aid are sickening. pic.twitter.com/bJ1Qsxkgx8

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 24, 2019

While @jguaido leads the effort to get the aid to the people, Maduro sends armed gangs to attack innocent civilians. #EstamosUnidosVE pic.twitter.com/OGRjtWnszp

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 24, 2019

The U.S. will take action against those who oppose the peaceful restoration of democracy in #Venezuela. Now is the time to act in support of the needs of the desperate Venezuelan people. We stand in solidarity with those continuing their struggle for freedom. #EstamosUnidosVE pic.twitter.com/XfLEsyT6Rj

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 24, 2019

A broad coalition of democracies insists that #Venezuela should be free & humanitarian aid should enter. We salute President @IvanDuque & Colombia for its leadership & recognize Brazil for its steadfast support by staging lifesaving aid for the Venezuelan people. #EstamosUnidosVE pic.twitter.com/h6Dv9mnGkC

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 24, 2019

Cuban agents are directing attacks on the people of #Venezuela on behalf of Maduro. The Venezuelan military should do its duty, protect the country’s citizens, and prevent the Havana puppeteers from starving hungry children. #EstamosUnidosVE

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 24, 2019

Vice President Mike Pence is meeting with Juan Guaidó on Monday:

To @jguaido & all the people of Venezuela taking a stand for freedom & humanitarian relief: Estamos con ustedes. We are with you. As @POTUS said: ‘The people of Venezuela are standing for freedom and democracy, and the USA is standing right by their side.’ ¡Vayan con Dios!

— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) February 23, 2019

Sen. Chris Murphy openly admits that regime change in Venezuela is coming and the means to do so is likely through the backdoor of the 1947 Rio Treaty:

1/ Democrats need to be careful about a potential trap being set by Trump et al in Venezuela. Cheering humanitarian convoys sounds like the right thing to do, but what if it’s not about the aid? What if the real agenda is laying a pretext for war? Follow my logic for a second.

— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 24, 2019

2/ First, so secret Trump has been talking up war with Maduro since 2017, when he repeatedly asked McMaster for a plan to overthrow Maduro. New McCabe book confirms Now, Trump says “all options are on the table” and Rubio objects to Senate resolution that forbids war.

— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 24, 2019

3/ I want aid to get to Venezuelans. But let’s be honest – Venezuela didn’t just lurch into humanitarian crisis. The aid is being sent there now as part of a regime change strategy. Many are hoping that it will be the match that lights a civil war against Maduro.

— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 24, 2019

4/ Senator Rubio rushed to tweet out reports today of Maduro allies firing into Colombian territory, warning that the “the United States WILL help Columbia confront any aggression against them.” Venezuela ordered Colombian diplomats out in 24 hours, ramping up the crisis.

— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 24, 2019

5/ Maduro is evil, and the U.S. should pursue a strategy to undermine him and prompt new elections. No one can defend what he has done to Venezuela. But it’s quite a different thing for the U.S. to incite a civil war with no real plan for how it ends (sound familiar?).

— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 24, 2019

6/ And finally – and perhaps most importantly – go look up the 1947 Rio Treaty, It’s a western hemisphere mutual defense treaty, and may not require a war declaration if Trump is legitimately coming to the defense of Colombia. Don’t think the Venezuela hawks don’t know this.

— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 24, 2019