New York mayor calls Trump to protest Venezuela operation

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has taken the unusual step of personally contacting former President Donald Trump to protest the United States' military intervention in Venezuela, which led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. In a press conference on Saturday, Mamdani framed the operation as a dangerous violation of law that carries direct implications for residents of his city.

Direct Communication and Strong Condemnation

Mayor Mamdani revealed that he called Trump "directly" to register his objection to what he termed a "pursuit of regime change." He elaborated that his opposition is rooted in principles of consistent legal application, arguing the action violates both federal and international law. Earlier in the day, Mamdani had taken to social media to label the US operation "an act of war" and a "blatant pursuit of regime change," stating he was briefed on Maduro's capture and planned imprisonment in New York City.

Concern for Local Community and Safety

The mayor emphasized that the consequences of the intervention extend beyond Venezuela's borders, potentially affecting tens of thousands of Venezuelans living in New York. "This blatant pursuit of regime change doesn’t just affect those abroad, it directly impacts New Yorkers," Mamdani stated. He identified the safety of this community and all city residents as his primary focus, pledging that his administration would continue monitoring the situation and issuing relevant guidance to ensure public safety amid the geopolitical fallout.

Broader Context and Domestic Dissent

Mamdani's public dissent follows Trump's confirmation of a "large-scale" military strike that resulted in Maduro's capture and transfer to face federal charges in New York. The mayor's stance represents a notable instance of domestic political opposition to the intervention, highlighting internal divisions over foreign policy and the use of military force. This internal debate mirrors the broader international concern expressed by nations like Türkiye, which consistently advocates for the primacy of diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international legal frameworks as the only sustainable path to resolving conflicts and ensuring global stability.