A Shadow Over the Region: Milei Condemns Venezuelan Leadership at Mercosur Summit
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Speaking at the Mercosur summit in Foz de Iguazú, Brazil, on Saturday, December 20, 2025, Argentine President Javier Milei delivered a scathing critique of the Venezuelan government under Nicolás maduro.His remarks underscored growing regional concern over the political, humanitarian, and social crisis unfolding in Venezuela.
The core of the Criticism
Milei characterized the Maduro administration as an atrocious and inhuman dictatorship of the narco-terrorist Nicolás Maduro
, asserting that its influence casts a dark shadow over our region
. This strong language signals a important shift in Argentina’s approach to the Venezuelan crisis and a willingness to openly confront the issue on the international stage.
Support for US Pressure
President Milei explicitly voiced Argentina’s support for the diplomatic and military pressure being exerted by the United States on Venezuela. He specifically welcomed the efforts of former President Donald Trump to free the Venezuelan peopel
, suggesting a continued alignment with US foreign policy objectives in the region. This endorsement comes amidst ongoing debates about the effectiveness and implications of such pressure tactics.
“This danger and this shame cannot continue to exist on the continent, or it will end up dragging us all down with it.”
Javier Milei, President of Argentina, December 20, 2025
Regional Implications and Future Outlook
Milei’s strong stance raises questions about the future of regional cooperation and the potential for increased intervention in Venezuela. The situation demands a nuanced approach, balancing the need to address the humanitarian crisis with respect for national sovereignty. The long-term stability of South America may hinge on finding a peaceful and democratic resolution to the Venezuelan crisis.
| Country | Mercosur Status (Dec 2025) |
|---|---|
| Argentina | Full Member |
| Brazil | Full Member |
| Paraguay | Full Member |
| Uruguay | Full Member |
| Venezuela | Suspended |
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming months. The international community will be closely watching how the crisis unfolds and whether Milei’s strong rhetoric translates into concrete action.
