Nicolás Maduro, President of Venezuela, stirred reactions in the US with his on-air dance and playful shows, inadvertently contributing to military actions. The New York Times reports that the Trump administration perceived Maduro's televised antics as an intentional jab at the United States.
According to the report, senior officials in President Donald Trump's administration felt Maduro wasn’t taking American warning and pressures seriously. An official told the newspaper that the decision was made after "one dance move too many." Officials believed Maduro was publicly mocking the threats posed by America and challenging Washington's warnings.
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The report also mentions a viral video circulating on social media where Maduro is seen swaying to music on the government TV channel, with the background echoing a voice in English saying, “No crazy war”. This broadcast happened shortly after the United States attacked a Venezuelan port, claiming it was linked to drug trafficking, causing tensions between both nations to escalate further.
Was Maduro challenging America?
According to the New York Times, Maduro had previously rejected President Trump's ultimatum to step down and accept exile in Turkey. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that instead of backing down, Maduro engaged in more public events, exuding a carefree and challenging demeanor.
Military action warning was previously given
U.S. officials state that all these events solidified the belief within the White House that Maduro was attempting to bluff the United States. Based on this assessment, the decision was made to act on previous military threats.
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Early Saturday, a special US military unit conducted an operation in Caracas, apprehending Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. They were taken to New York, where Maduro awaits proceedings related to criminal charges of drug trafficking.
