The recent U.S. military action in Venezuela has ignited a call for a definitive response from Germany and Europe, spearheaded by SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch. Addressing the SPD faction’s annual opening conference in Berlin, Miersch voiced concern over what he characterized as a violation of international law by the United States within the Western values community. He argued that the incident necessitates drawing critical conclusions and underscores the imperative for a robust reaction rooted in shared principles.
Miersch emphasized the need for a forceful statement from the “community of values” positioning the European Union as the initial and most crucial platform for such a response. He questioned whether existing European mechanisms are adequate to address the evolving situation, signaling a potential reassessment of the EU’s capacity for diplomatic and potentially, economic countermeasures.
Beyond a European response, Miersch advocated for the cultivation of global alliances, specifically highlighting the importance of partnerships with nations in the Global South. This strategy aims to ensure the continued upholding and enforcement of international law and shared values in a period of perceived geopolitical instability and unilateral action. His call suggests a desire to forge a broader coalition willing to challenge actions perceived as undermining the international legal order, moving beyond traditional European frameworks and seeking solidarity with countries often marginalized in Western power dynamics. The success of this initiative, however, will likely hinge on navigating differing geopolitical priorities and fostering genuine consensus amongst diverse nations.