Venezuela isn't just about oil

It seems to be the leading thought that the US has invaded Venezuela because of oil. While it is true that Venezuela is rich in oil and other minerals, it is not the sole reason for the invasion.

Venezuela is a country that defies the US capitalist worldview. It has done so for over two decades now. It is an important regional partner for Russia, China and Cuba. By hurting Venezuela you are also hurting Chinese and Russian influence in the region. You are hurting Cuba which is heavily dependent on Venezuela for, for example, a functioning energy grid. It is no secret that Cuba has been a thorn in the eye of the US for decades now, and this is their way of putting on even more pressure.

It is also about sending a signal. 'Defy us and see what happens'. The US empire is crumbling and they will not go out without a bang. They want to show other that they, if they want, can topple your government and that you are not safe.

So no, the US did not invade Venezuela just because of 'oil'. It did so also to send a message and to put pressure on their (near) peers on the global stage. It did so to further hurt the progressive movement in Latin America, trying to establish more right wing influence in the region like they did for example with Milei.

I think, as marxists, we also need to keep pushing these points when talking about Venezuela to people to make it clear what the true objectives of the empire are.