São Paulo [Brazil], December 8 (ANI): The Lula administration has placed escalating Venezuela–US tensions at the top of Brazil’s diplomatic agenda following intelligence reports warning of a potential US airstrike on Venezuelan territory. Officials at the Planalto Palace interpret recent American military activity in the Caribbean as preparation for a possible offensive, prompting political, defence, and humanitarian alerts within the Brazilian government, according to reports by Valour Economico and Brasil 247.
Brazilian authorities say President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is pursuing a dual approach: seeking to prevent any initial strike while preparing diplomatic strategies to contain regional fallout should an attack occur. Despite Washington’s firm stance, Brasilia continues to maintain a communication channel between Caracas and the United States.
The US deployment of assets, including the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford in Caribbean waters, is seen by Brazilian officials as a shift to a more assertive posture. Recent US strikes on boats alleged to be used by Venezuelan traffickers have resulted in several deaths. President Donald Trump has warned that Venezuelan airspace should be treated as “closed,” urging American citizens to leave the country.
The Venezuelan crisis was a key topic in last week’s call between Lula and Trump, which also addressed sanctions and trade issues. While Trump did not reveal details of any planned action, Brazil is using diplomatic channels to urge President Nicolás Maduro toward restraint and dialogue. Maduro has indicated a willingness for “peace” and conversation, including a phone call with Trump, though no specifics have been released.
Behind closed doors, Brazilian advisers are studying scenarios for a potential US strike. One approach involves persuading Maduro to avoid disproportionate retaliation that could justify broader US military action. Analysts suggest any US operation would likely target infrastructure linked to narcotrafficking.
Countries including France and the Netherlands have expressed concern, while divisions within South America complicate a coordinated response. Brazil is particularly focused on three immediate risks: mass displacement toward its northern border, the precedent of narcotrafficking-based interventions, and potential collapse of the Maduro government, which could destabilize the region. In the event of an attack, Brazil is considering leading a coalition to prevent escalation, though such an initiative may encounter resistance within South America.
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