“Of course the people don’t want war. But after all, it’s the leaders of the country who determine the policy, and it’s always a simple matter to drag the people along whether it’s a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism, and exposing the country to greater danger.”
— Herman Goering
An issue where there is no issue? Wag the dog Venezuelan style? And if no issue make an issue!
"Venezuela navy confronts Exxon oil ship in Guyana border dispute"
"GEORGETOWN/CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela’s navy 'intercepted' a ship exploring for oil on behalf of Exxon Mobil Corp (XOM.N) in Guyanese waters over the weekend, Guyana’s foreign ministry said in a statement, while neighboring Venezuela said the incident occurred within its territory"
Devoted readers to the blog might want to read of the never-ending dispute Guayana Esequiba. An argument centuries old of border, land, Economic-Exclusion-Zone [EEZ].
Venezuela having at least to my understanding THE LARGEST KNOW PETROLEUM RESERVES IN THE WORLD! Guyana not possessing at least until now ANY KNOWN PETROLEUM RESERVES.
Traditionally and historically disputes over border delineation and the desire to control resources often a casus belli!
That presence of an AMERICAN SHIP OF EXPLORATION at the heart of the whole matter? President Maduro of Venezuela with social unrest in his nation rife, seeking the scapegoat, the hated Yanqui in this case. A deliberate and malicious provocation from the perspective of the Venezuelan the only worthy response some sort of military action and all to the advantage of Maduro?
Hold onto your hats everyone!
coolbert.