Lula Warns U.S. Strike on Venezuela Could Spark Regional Crisis

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Friday warned that any military intervention by the United States in Venezuela would have “catastrophic” consequences for the country and the wider Latin American region, urging Washington to pursue diplomacy instead of force.

Speaking on the sidelines of a Mercosur summit in Foz do Iguaçu, Lula said armed intervention would worsen Venezuela’s humanitarian situation and destabilise South America.

He cautioned that foreign military involvement in the region could revive patterns of conflict that Latin American countries have sought to move beyond.

Lula’s remarks came amid heightened tensions following recent U.S. actions targeting Venezuela’s oil trade. 

• Lula warns US military action against Venezuela could trigger regional crisis
• Brazil president urges diplomacy as tensions rise over US pressure on Venezuela
• Latin American leaders oppose military intervention, call for peaceful resolution

​The United States has stepped up enforcement of sanctions on Venezuelan crude, including moves to block oil shipments as part of efforts to pressure the government of President Nicolás Maduro. Oil exports are Venezuela’s primary source of revenue, and restrictions have already contributed to economic strain and shortages.

The Brazilian president said economic and political disputes should not be resolved through military means, adding that dialogue remains the only viable path to addressing Venezuela’s political crisis. He drew comparisons with past conflicts in the region, warning that escalation could have long-term consequences for sovereignty and regional stability.

Other Latin American leaders echoed concerns over the risk of escalation. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum also expressed opposition to military intervention, reinforcing calls for negotiation and multilateral engagement. Several governments have stressed that pressure on Caracas should be aligned with international law and avoid civilian harm.

A joint statement issued after the summit by leaders from Argentina, Paraguay and Panama, along with representatives from Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting democratic processes and human rights in Venezuela through peaceful and diplomatic channels.

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Venezuela has condemned U.S. actions as hostile and illegal, while regional leaders continue to push for mediation. The situation has also added to global oil market volatility, underlining the broader economic impact of the standoff.