Change of Regional Governments and the Departure of John Bolton May Involve Risks for Hemispheric Security
Several events have happened in the last several weeks that are worrisome for hemispheric security. The first is the victory of Alberto Fernandez and his candidate for vice-president, the former president Cristina Kirchner, in the Argentinean primaries. The second is the ouster of National Security Advisor John Bolton. Most recently, Mr. Fernandez stated that the regime of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela is not a dictatorship because it is an elected government. There is absolutely no institution that functions in Venezuela except against the well-being of society. Democracy should be about government of the people, by the people and for the people. In Venezuela it is exactly the opposite. Another worrisome event is the departure of John Bolton as National Security Advisor. Bolton was one of the main pushers for regime change in Venezuela. Bolton created false expectations not only for Trump but also for the Venezuelan opposition and the Venezuelan people. However, Bolton was very assertive in making every possible effort to get rid of the Maduro regime and these efforts are worth continuing. Bolton’s departure has raised concerns in Venezuela. Recent events must not give comfort to the murderous and terrorist Venezuelan regime.