A significant escalation in international tensions has emerged following the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. This action has drawn widespread criticism and sparked protests across the United States. Concurrently, severe weather conditions have disrupted travel and daily life across Europe, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures affecting multiple countries.

VENEZUELA MILITARY INTERVENTION SPARKS GLOBAL REACTIONS
The U.S. military's recent operation to capture Nicolás Maduro has raised serious concerns about international law and the potential for further geopolitical instability. Emily Thornberry, a senior Labour MP in the UK, warned that the lack of condemnation from Western allies could embolden nations like China and Russia to pursue similar actions in their spheres of influence. The U.S. has faced bipartisan criticism for bypassing Congress in its military actions, with many arguing that such unilateral interventions set a dangerous precedent.

Maduro is due to appear in a New York federal court facing multiple charges, including drug trafficking and weapons possession. His capture, which resulted in significant violence and civilian casualties, has been described by Trump as necessary for U.S. interests in the region. Protests erupted in various U.S. cities, with demonstrators condemning the military intervention and calling for the preservation of Venezuela's sovereignty.

OIL MARKET REACTIONS TO U.S. ACTIONS
In response to the U.S. intervention, oil prices have dipped as markets assess the implications for Venezuela's oil industry, which holds a substantial portion of the world's crude reserves. Although Venezuela's output has significantly declined due to years of sanctions and mismanagement, the prospect of U.S. companies investing in the country has created fluctuations in oil prices. Former Chevron executive Ali Moshiri has announced plans to raise $2 billion for oil projects in Venezuela, indicating potential for recovery in the sector, albeit in the long term.

SEVERE WEATHER DISRUPTS EUROPE
As geopolitical tensions escalate, Europe is grappling with severe winter weather. An Arctic air mass has plunged temperatures across the continent, leading to heavy snowfall and travel disruptions in countries including the UK, Ireland, and parts of central Europe. In the UK, hundreds of schools have closed due to snow, and travel disruptions have been reported across various transport networks. The Met Office has issued amber and yellow warnings for snow and ice, with some regions facing accumulations of up to 30 cm.

In Germany, an arson attack by left-wing militants has resulted in a significant power outage affecting tens of thousands of households in Berlin. The group claimed responsibility for the attack as part of a protest against climate change and energy consumption, further complicating the situation as residents face freezing temperatures without power.

DENMARK RESPONDS TO U.S. THREATS OVER GREENLAND
Amidst the turmoil in Venezuela, U.S. President Trump has reiterated claims that the U.S. needs to take over Greenland, prompting a strong response from Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. She condemned the threats as unacceptable and emphasized that Greenland is not for sale. The comments have drawn ire from both Danish officials and the Greenlandic leadership, who have called for mutual respect and adherence to international law.

WRAP-UP
The combination of military actions in Venezuela, severe weather disruptions in Europe, and escalating tensions over Greenland illustrates a complex international landscape. As nations navigate these challenges, the implications for global stability and cooperation remain uncertain. The situation continues to evolve, with potential ramifications for international relations and economic markets worldwide.

Sources: theguardian.com, newsis.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team