Celso Amorim, the chief foreign policy adviser to Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has expressed concerns that a U.S. invasion or military action against Venezuela could result in a conflict reminiscent of the Vietnam War, potentially drawing in global powers. In an interview, Amorim characterized President Donald Trump’s recent decision to close Venezuelan airspace as an 'act of war' and cautioned that such actions could escalate tensions in South America.

Amorim emphasized the historical context of resistance in Latin America against foreign intervention, suggesting that any U.S. military action would likely provoke widespread anti-American sentiment across the continent. He noted that even those opposed to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro might unite against foreign aggression.

The U.S. has intensified its pressure on Maduro's regime, including a $50 million bounty on Maduro and significant naval deployments in the Caribbean. Following Trump's declaration of a complete closure of Venezuelan airspace, most international airlines ceased operations to the country, which Amorim deemed 'totally illegal.' Reports indicate that Trump may have issued a deadline for Maduro to resign, which has since passed without compliance from the Venezuelan leader.

Despite allegations of electoral fraud, Amorim stated that Brazil does not support forced regime change and highlighted the importance of respecting the sovereignty of nations. He suggested that any transition in Venezuela should be determined internally rather than imposed externally, recalling Brazil's own gradual transition from military dictatorship to democracy.

Amorim proposed the possibility of a recall referendum as a means to address Venezuela's political crisis, drawing parallels to a similar event in 2004. He acknowledged the complexities of the situation, including the potential for civil unrest should Maduro be ousted, while also recognizing the significant migration crisis that has already resulted from the ongoing economic and political turmoil in Venezuela.