Zaeli sees US operation in Venezuela as ‘victory for democracy’

The deputy leader of the opposition in the Chamber, federal deputy Rodrigo da Zaeli (PL-MT), classified as a “victory for Venezuelan democracy” the recent military operation conducted by the United States in Venezuelan territory, which resulted in the capture of a senior official from Nicolás Maduro’s government accused of drug trafficking.

In a conversation with the owner of this column, the parliamentarian, an ally of former president Jair Bolsonaro, stated that the action represents an important message. “It was a victory for Venezuelan democracy, against a government that oppresses and arrests opponents, disrespects the will of the polls and is linked to drug trafficking,” said Zaeli.

The deputy also accused the Madurista regime of using the state machinery for illicit purposes. “[É] a government that uses the structure of the State as a network of corruption. This is not good for democracy in any country”, he stated. For him, the episode symbolizes that “the time of these authoritarian regimes is running out”.

Transition monitoring

Asked about the developments, Zaeli highlighted that it was essential to monitor the transition of command in the neighboring country to assess the future of the regime. “Now we hope that this transition of government in Venezuela can be a step forward in taking the country out of the public calamity it is experiencing,” he declared.

The parliamentarian cited the Venezuelan minimum wage, equivalent to approximately US$3, and the exodus of more than 8 million people as indicators of the humanitarian crisis. “I hope [os venezuelanos] be able to return and have a family life, build a strong, independent country free from these corruption and drug trafficking scandals”, he concluded.

The Venezuelan government has not yet officially commented on the Brazilian deputy’s statements.

*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.