Massachusetts Democratic Congressman Seth Moulton delivered a scathing critique of President Donald Trump's recent actions and statements regarding Venezuela, labelling the administration's approach as "insane." The condemnation came after a U.S. military operation targeted the South American nation, leading to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
A Sharp Rebuke from the Armed Services Committee
Speaking on CNN this past Saturday, Moulton, who serves on the influential House Armed Services Committee, did not mince words. "Is anyone going to just stop for a second and be honest? This is insane. What the hell are we doing?" he asked anchor Erin Burnett. His comments were a direct response to President Trump's announcement that the United States would "run" Venezuela to oversee a transition of power.
The operation followed an indictment from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, who charged Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, with serious crimes. The charges include narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation conspiracy, with plans for Maduro to face trial in the United States. Bondi described the couple as "alleged international narco traffickers."
Contradictions and a Lack of Strategy
Moulton accused the Trump administration of deceiving Congress about its intentions. He revealed that during confidential briefings, lawmakers were explicitly told there were no plans to invade Venezuela, put troops on the ground, or pursue regime change. "So in a sense, we have been briefed. We’ve just been completely lied to," Moulton stated, pointing a finger at both the president and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The congressman argued that the intervention is not only illegal and unjustified but also contrary to American national interests. "We got a lot of problems in America today, and invading, occupying, running Venezuela does not solve any of them," he emphasized, questioning the absence of a clear plan for the country's future.
Questioning Priorities and the Cost of Conflict
Moulton framed the military action as a costly personal vendetta for Trump, predicting it would require a massive commitment of troops and taxpayer money—potentially over a billion dollars. He contrasted this expenditure with domestic needs that he claims are being neglected.
"This is all money, by the way, that he’s not willing to spend to pay for your health care, that he’s not willing to spend to make things more affordable here in America," Moulton argued. He characterized the venture as a diversion of vital resources away from pressing issues at home, undermining the stated "America First" agenda.
The lawmaker's forceful dissent adds to a growing chorus of Democratic voices challenging the legality and wisdom of the Venezuela operation, setting the stage for a fierce political battle over the direction of U.S. foreign policy.
