It was undeniably a momentous occasion as delegates from across the globe convened in Caracas, Venezuela, last week to resolutely express solidarity with the South American territory and advocate for peace and sovereignty.
Venezuela and various South American nations have staunchly opposed perceived US military aggression, fiercely championing regional peace and the assertion of national sovereignty. This powerful stance encapsulates a broader sentiment within Latin America against foreign intervention and a determined desire to uphold autonomy.
The region’s collective voice unequivocally emphasizes non-interference and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. This position is articulated in numerous forums, addressing concerns about the militarization of the area and the urgent need to expel what is deemed ‘imperialist, colonial violence.’
The EU’s stance on US actions concerning Venezuela is also critically analysed in this context.
More than 5,000 representatives from 50 countries firmly rallied support for Venezuela and the region against the United States’ military aggression.
Over three to four days, participants gathered at the Autonomous Institute of National Army Circle (Instituto Autonomo Circulo Fuerza Armada) in Venezuela—the land of Simón Bolívar and a cradle of dreams and struggles for freedom and justice—underscoring the imperative of uniting social movements, political parties, jurists, parliamentarians, and grassroots organizations for the “Assembly of the Peoples for the Sovereignty and Peace of Our America.”
The assembly served as an ideal platform and backdrop to articulate a global movement for lasting peace with sovereignty, opening horizons of solidarity, dialogue, cooperation, and decisive collective action in the face of global challenges. The lively and engaging sessions were marked by passionate debates, working groups, mobilizations, and public engagement.
“From Caracas, we want to declare to the world that peace is dignity in motion, active cooperation, and the creative power of the people,” stated a Venezuelan diplomat in a powerful communique.
The statement affirmed the participants’ unwavering resolve as a “commitment to this universal cause and an opportunity to exchange ideas, proposals, and experiences that reinforce the construction of a just, multi-polar international order based on mutual respect.”
Furthermore, the International Assembly for Peace & Sovereignty unequivocally justified the resistance of the people in overcoming their struggles.
“This is an unprecedented moment in history for Venezuela, South America, and the wider region,” declared Yvan Gill, Venezuela’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, during an impassioned opening session.
Moreover, he emphasized, “The people of the world have reacted forcefully” to consolidate peace in Venezuela while denouncing the aggressive military actions orchestrated by the US and its allies.
Speeches were met with evocative slogans and songs that vividly captured the essence of a struggle deeply rooted in love. Abel Prieto, President of Cuba de las Americas, made it clear that the Cuban delegation represented all sectors of society, emphasizing the critical role of women in their resistance.
“Our women are the cornerstone of our resistance,” he proclaimed. He condemned US military action as a “weapon designed to destroy Cuba, Venezuela, and the region.”
Prieto commended the unwavering commitment, courage, and resolve of millions of Venezuelans who “enlisted in the militia…and did so without fear.”
He asserted, “They shall not pass: No to Imperialism. The balance of the world is at stake.” Andrea Vlhavsic, Argentinian Representative and Vice-President of the American de Jurists, declared unequivocally that it is the people’s obligation to defend the right to peace and the inherent dignity of human civility.
She addressed the gross violations of Natural Law by imperial forces, denouncing it as a “hybrid war” compounded by economic blockades.
A global representative from a solidarity group stated emphatically, “We are on the front lines of the struggle…. Every day, we advance ‘a little closer’ to constructing a New World and a New Order for Resistance.”
Another voice of concern articulated, “We must carve out an appropriate course for the struggle and staunchly defend against US military interference in our region, prioritizing the peace of the area.”