Statement from Sacerdotus Ministry on the U.S. Invasion of Venezuela and the Capture of Nicolás Maduro
January 3, 2026
As a ministry dedicated to the pursuit of truth, justice, and the dignity of all human persons in light of divine principles, Sacerdotus Ministry feels compelled to address the recent events surrounding the United States' military invasion of Venezuela and the subsequent capture of Nicolás Maduro. This action, undertaken by the Trump administration, marks a pivotal and contentious moment in international relations, one that raises profound ethical, political, and humanitarian questions. While we neither condemn nor condone the invasion itself, we recognize that the removal of Maduro from power represents a significant victory for the Venezuelan people, who have endured years of suffering under his regime. However, this outcome must be weighed against the broader implications for global sovereignty, leadership accountability, and the lessons of history.
At its core, the invasion undeniably violates the sovereignty of other nations and the traditional immunity afforded to heads of state. International law, as enshrined in the United Nations Charter and various treaties, emphasizes the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states. The immunity of leaders, while not absolute, is designed to prevent chaos and protect diplomatic stability. By crossing Venezuela's borders with military force, the United States has set a precedent that could embolden other powers to disregard these norms, potentially leading to a more unstable world order. Such actions risk eroding the fabric of international cooperation, where dialogue and sanctions are preferred over unilateral force. Yet, in this specific case, the legitimacy of Maduro's presidency must be scrutinized. Maduro was not the legitimate president of Venezuela. Credible evidence from international observers and domestic opposition indicates that he lost the most recent elections, yet he clung to power through manipulation, suppression of dissent, and the erosion of democratic institutions. His refusal to relinquish authority transformed him from an elected leader into a de facto dictator, forfeiting any claim to sovereign immunity rooted in legitimate governance. This distinction is crucial: the invasion targeted not a rightful sovereign but a usurper who had already violated his own nation's constitution and the will of its people.
With Maduro's capture, the United States under President Trump now bears full responsibility for Venezuela's future—a burden that comes at a time when America is grappling with its own internal challenges. The U.S. is facing economic pressures, political divisions, infrastructure decay, and social unrest, making it difficult to effectively manage domestic affairs. Adding the stewardship of a fractured nation like Venezuela to this load raises serious concerns about overextension. History teaches us that imperial overreach often leads to downfall, and the Trump administration must tread carefully to avoid repeating past mistakes. Venezuela, once one of South America's wealthiest nations, has been ravaged by Maduro's policies: hyperinflation, food shortages, mass emigration, and human rights abuses have left millions in despair. His regime's corruption and mismanagement destroyed the economy, turning oil-rich reserves into symbols of squandered potential. The invasion, therefore, presents a partial "ends justifies the means" scenario. A tyrant who has systematically abused his people, suppressed freedoms, and driven his country into ruin is now removed and poised to face justice—likely through international tribunals or U.S. courts. This outcome is undoubtedly a win for human dignity and accountability, offering hope for rebuilding and reconciliation in Venezuela.
On the other hand, we must heed the hard-learned lessons from interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan. In both cases, the initial removal of oppressive leaders—Saddam Hussein and the Taliban—seemed like triumphs, but the aftermath revealed the complexities of nation-building. Sectarian violence, insurgencies, corruption, and instability plagued those efforts, costing trillions of dollars and countless lives without yielding the stable democracies envisioned by American policymakers. Things do not always unfold as planned, especially when cultural, historical, and social contexts are overlooked. The Trump administration now has the opportunity—and the obligation—to do things correctly in Venezuela. This means prioritizing Venezuelan agency over American imposition. The U.S. must facilitate free and fair elections, allowing the Venezuelan people to select their own leadership without external interference. This new leadership should be one committed to restoring prosperity, not perpetuating the ruins left by Maduro. Crucially, Venezuela's vast natural resources—particularly its oil reserves—must remain under Venezuelan control. The temptation to exploit these assets for U.S. gain must be resisted; any assistance should focus on sustainable development, humanitarian aid, and institutional reforms that empower locals, not enrich foreign interests.
In reflecting on these events through a lens of faith and reason, Sacerdotus Ministry urges prayer and discernment for all involved. The removal of Maduro is a sure win in terms of ending a chapter of tyranny, but true justice requires more than conquest—it demands wisdom, humility, and respect for sovereignty. We call on the international community to support Venezuela's transition, ensuring that this intervention does not become another footnote in the annals of failed imperialism. Let us hope that from these ashes, a renewed Venezuela emerges, guided by principles of freedom, equity, and peace. As always, our ministry stands ready to offer spiritual guidance and advocacy for the oppressed, trusting in divine providence to illuminate the path forward.
