Tell the Senate "No war with Venezuela"

November 4, 2025

Background: Since early September, the U.S. has conducted at least 14 air strikes on small vessels off the coast of Venezuela killing a total of 61 people. U.S. officials allege the boats were transporting large amounts of drugs, however they have yet to provide evidence for those claims. Latin American leaders have accused the U.S. of murdering innocent civilians. Such extrajudicial killings without due process are illegal under domestic and international law.  

The U.S. has reportedly moved a substantial number of warships, planes, and personnel into the Caribbean Sea and officials have confirmed the CIA is present in Venezuela, raising concerns that the goal is to oust Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. The history of U.S. intervention in the hemisphere demonstrates that such a regime change will likely lead to more conflict and chaos.  

While MCC does not have partners in Venezuela, there are Anabaptist churches—and the prospect of military violence anywhere in the world weighs heavily on our hearts. MCC partners in Colombia and throughout Latin America could also see an increase in migrants fleeing Venezuela if the situation continues to deteriorate. Violence is never a path to stability or long-term peace.  

A Senate resolution to reassert congressional authority over these strikes was narrowly rejected 48-51 in October. A new resolution to restrain the strikes (S.J. Res. 90) will be voted on this week.  

Faith Reflection: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9 NIV)