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In an unexpected turn of events, the U.S. military successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, prompting a swift and organized response from various socialist factions within the United States. This article examines the intricate web of information warfare and propaganda tactics employed by these groups to support Maduro almost immediately after the military operation commenced.
Within hours of Maduro’s capture, a well-coordinated campaign unfolded across multiple cities in the U.S., showcasing the robust networks of self-identified Marxist and socialist organizations. Utilizing social media platforms as their primary tool, these groups launched an array of protests and public statements, framing the military action as a form of imperialism and calling for solidarity with the Venezuelan regime.
Mobilization of socialist networks
As the clock struck 1:35 a.m. on the day of the operation, the first ripples of dissent began to surface. The socialist media outlet BreakThrough News released footage of the U.S. military’s actions, labeling the intervention as an illegal bombing campaign. This narrative quickly garnered traction among leftist circles, setting the tone for the ensuing protests.
Shortly thereafter, at 1:45 a.m., Manolo De Los Santos, the director of The People’s Forum, echoed this sentiment on social media, further amplifying the call against U.S. aggression. By 2:29 a.m., the ANSWER Coalition, a prominent leftist group co-founded by Brian Becker, joined in with a striking poster urging supporters to rally in Times Square and other locations to denounce the military actions. The poster’s bold proclamation, “NO WAR ON VENEZUELA! STOP THE BOMBINGS,” resonated with activists nationwide.
Information warfare tactics
As the hours progressed, the momentum only intensified. The People’s Forum shared the emergency protest call at 2:34 a.m., while the Party for Socialism and Liberation disseminated similar messages across various platforms. The synchrony in their communications illustrated an organized approach, suggesting that these groups had been preparing for such an event well in advance, utilizing a strategy likened to military precision.
By 3:21 a.m., Vijay Prashad, director of the Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, voiced his condemnation of the U.S. military operation, asserting, “Down with U.S. imperialism.” His comments mirrored the broader narrative being established by these organizations, framing the conflict as a struggle against external aggression.
International connections and local implications
As investigations into the links between these U.S. factions and foreign influences continue, it becomes clear that many of these groups are part of a larger global network. This network is believed to be coordinated by the International Peoples’ Assembly, which serves as a hub uniting various socialist and communist movements worldwide. The assembly’s media outlets, such as the People’s Dispatch, actively promote resistance against what they term American imperialism, particularly in relation to Venezuela.
As the day unfolded, statements condemning U.S. actions proliferated. By 7:49 a.m., the International People’s Assembly released a poster for a nationwide “EMERGENCY DAY OF ACTION,” further galvanizing supporters. This assembly, closely aligned with Tricontinental, embodies a systematic approach to ideological mobilization, utilizing a combination of powerful narratives and grassroots activism.
Historical context of support for Maduro
The roots of this support system can be traced back to the early 2000s, when leaders like Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez established partnerships that laid the groundwork for ongoing cooperation among socialist factions. Over the years, this infrastructure has evolved into a formidable network backing Maduro’s presidency.
For instance, in March 2019, De Los Santos orchestrated a pro-Maduro demonstration outside the Venezuelan consulate in New York City, effectively blocking opposition figures from gaining access. This incident exemplifies the concerted efforts by these organizations to maintain a united front against perceived imperialist threats.
A new dimension of ideological conflict
Within hours of Maduro’s capture, a well-coordinated campaign unfolded across multiple cities in the U.S., showcasing the robust networks of self-identified Marxist and socialist organizations. Utilizing social media platforms as their primary tool, these groups launched an array of protests and public statements, framing the military action as a form of imperialism and calling for solidarity with the Venezuelan regime.0
Within hours of Maduro’s capture, a well-coordinated campaign unfolded across multiple cities in the U.S., showcasing the robust networks of self-identified Marxist and socialist organizations. Utilizing social media platforms as their primary tool, these groups launched an array of protests and public statements, framing the military action as a form of imperialism and calling for solidarity with the Venezuelan regime.1