John Bolton on Venezuela

John Bolton, particularly during his tenure as National Security Advisor, maintained a hardline stance advocating for the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela. His position centered on the belief that the authoritarian regime was illegitimate and a threat, frequently calling for increased pressure, sanctions, and international support for the opposition. Evidence of this consistent policy view is found in his public statements and discussions regarding the administration's strategy at the time. He also expressed criticism regarding the execution of plans intended to facilitate a transition of power.

Following his departure from government service, his commentary has often implied that the administration's efforts were insufficiently aggressive or, at times, poorly executed bureaucratically. He has suggested that a more decisive or better-coordinated approach would have succeeded in displacing the current leadership. His ongoing public remarks often revisit the Venezuelan crisis, reinforcing his conviction that a firm, anti-Maduro posture is the correct diplomatic and strategic course for the United States to pursue.