Capture of Venezuelan President Shows Arrogance of US Imperialism: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday strongly criticised the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by United States forces, calling it a direct threat to democratic nations and a sign of the “arrogance and audacity of US imperialism”.

Speaking after inaugurating the 4th Kerala Legislative Assembly International Book Festival (KLIBF) here, the Chief Minister said the unprecedented seizure of a sovereign head of state was “something unheard of” in the modern world and raised serious concerns internationally.

Pinarayi Vijayan, whose remarks reflect growing global opposition to the US action, said that the operation went beyond law enforcement and bordered on aggressive intervention in another country’s affairs. He noted that Maduro’s capture and transfer to New York to face criminal charges had sparked sharp debate at the United Nations and among legal experts over violations of international law.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the danger extended beyond Venezuela. He said US President Donald Trump has "arrogantly" announced that similar steps will take place against Cuba and Greenland as well.

“This is a new phase where nations that do not align with American interests are being targeted,” Pinarayi Vijayan said, urging festival participants to use the platform to discuss the implications of the crisis on global peace and democratic sovereignty.

The Chief Minister, in his speech, also welcomed Banu Mushtaq, winner of the 2025 International Booker Prize, who is the chief guest at the week-long event.

Several political leaders attended the inauguration, including Ministers K Rajan, K N Balagopal, V Sivankutty, Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan and Deputy Leader P K Kunhalikutty.