Frustration with Maduro Sparks Regional Backing for U.S. Military Intervention, Poll Shows

A recent survey by AtlasIntel for Bloomberg News highlights a surprising shift in Latin American public opinion: strong support for U.S. military intervention to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and combat transnational drug cartels.

The poll, conducted in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico between January 27 and 31, 2025, reveals majorities in four of the five countries favor such actions, reflecting widespread frustration with regional crises.

The survey shows that 81% of Colombians, 73% of Chileans, and 61% of Brazilians back U.S. military force to oust Maduro. These nations have borne the brunt of Venezuela’s ongoing economic collapse and migration crisis.

Since 2014, this crisis has displaced over 7.7 million people. In contrast, Mexico remains an outlier, with only 24% expressing a positive view of the U.S., and 54% opposing military action against cartels.

Maduro’s contested re-election in July 2024, widely viewed as fraudulent by the Venezuelan opposition, has deepened regional discontent. His regime faces accusations of systemic corruption and ties to drug trafficking through the “Cartel of the Suns.”

This organization allegedly facilitates cocaine smuggling with military involvement. These issues have exacerbated Venezuela’s humanitarian crisis, marked by hyperinflation and severe shortages of basic goods.

While support for U.S. intervention is high, skepticism about former President Donald Trump remains evident. Trump’s aggressive rhetoric toward Venezuela and cartels has not translated into broad personal approval.

Latin America’s Complex View of U.S. Influence

For instance, only half of Colombians view him favorably—the highest level among surveyed nations—while Mexicans overwhelmingly disapprove due to his past threats of tariffs and border militarization.

The poll also underscores lingering distrust of U.S. motives in Latin America. Historical interventions during the Cold War left deep scars, fostering skepticism about Washington’s intentions.

Trump’s recent comments about reclaiming control of the Panama Canal have further fueled concerns about American overreach; 85% of Mexicans and 67% of Colombians oppose such a move.

Despite these complexities, the results reflect mounting frustration with Maduro’s regime and cartel violence. They do not indicate unconditional support for U.S. policies or leadership.

As migration pressures strain regional resources and security concerns grow, Latin America faces tough choices. The region must determine how to address these escalating crises effectively.