The cautious response from governments across continents to the provocative actions of the Trump Administration in Venezuela is a sign of the times. The global order has been hugely shaken by the abrasive US offensive against a weak nation in its neighbourhood. Yet, there’s no one around to stand up against the aggressor; and not many to condemn the action even for the sake of a condemnation. The United Nations went as far as expressing its deep concern over the US action and stated that it, “undermined the core principle of international law” but it stopped short of condemning the outrageous offensive. The UN stands divided on the issue, but its Human Rights wing has stated in a firm voice that, “Accountability for human rights abuses cannot be achieved by unilateral military intervention that violates international law.” Yet, the world body stopped short of a condemnation. So too with India, which also is cautious in its response, perhaps for fear that a stronger response could antagonise the Trump administration. An emboldened Trump keeps holding out threats of annexation against more of his neighbours; and has set his eyes on Greenland as well.
The global scenario is back to square one. There’s none to stand up against the bullying of Uncle Sam. Russia is a pale shadow of its USSR days. Vladimir Putin added to its loss of esteem by an aggression against Ukraine and is bleeding himself. China, not in a position to ever take on the US militarily is restrained in its responses. The Non-Alignment Movement, a powerful entity during the Cold War period, and India a leading partner, is an old story. In this backdrop, no one understands the present possibilities for usurpation better than Trump himself. The UN is increasingly proving its irrelevance. It is turning into a white elephant, its functionaries drawing huge salaries and perks, and not being able to effectively mediate in global disputes, and more so in disputes involving the US. The result is a sense of uncertainty, especially with the existence of smaller nations. A new normal has been introduced through abrasive actions, be it Russia or the US. The definition of territorial integrity is getting increasingly blurred.
Leadership is also about a vision for the future. Great empires were built by courageous men who waged wars and annihilated humans by their thousands, but such rulers changed the course of history. Eventually, their wrongs were forgotten and their victories glorified on the pages of history. That’s hailed as statecraft. India maintained a high global standing during the Nehru era when it refused to ally with rival global powers. But it’s well-known that the NAM had a soft corner towards the USSR and raised its voice against the US’ imperialist designs. Today, global diplomacy by New Delhi is led by a ‘hug and hands-shake” culture. Perhaps India built confidence in ‘aggressor’ Trump by not resisting his mediation in the Operation Sindoor — an involvement that he kept citing as a new feather on his cap. If anyone thought this would qualify him for a Nobel Peace Prize, what happened in Venezuela now should occasion a rethinking.
