Dallas protestors ask U.S. to stop meddling in Venezuela

A group of protestors in downtown Dallas on Tuesday demanded that the U.S. stop meddling in Venezuela.

The small handful of people protested outside a federal courthouse and said they are against the U.S. government’s ongoing threats of possible military action against embattled President Nicolas Maduro.

“It's a nation that has charted its own destiny it does not listen to what Washington wants it to do,” said Hadi Jawad, Dallas Peace and Justice Center.

The U.S. Secretary of State talked about military options as the turmoil in Venezuela intensifies.

“Military action is possible if required that's what the United States will do,” said Mike Pompeo.

Venezuelans who support opposition leader Juan Guaido, recognized by the U.S. as the nation's rightful leader, clashed with President's Maduro's military forces last week. That led to violence in the streets of Caracas.

SMU Political Science Professor Matthew Wilson says exploring military options doesn't necessarily mean sending U.S. troops to Venezuela.

“Military involvement can also come in the form of advisors, logistical support, working in partnership with other Latin American countries,” Wilson said.

President Donald Trump has ordered economic sanctions against Cuba for its support of President Maduro.

“If they can pressure the Cubans to back off they think there is a significant possibility for democratic change,” Wilson said.

Protester Gerardo Sanchez, who has friends in Venezuela, believes the U.S government is overstepping its authority.

“The U.S. has always been trying to impose their will... not only against Venezuela but Cuba for years,” Sanchez said.

Wilson believes the turmoil will eventually become a pressing issue in the U.S.

“At some point the U.S. will have to decide how far we as a nation are willing to go to put American interest on the line in Venezuela in order to ferment the Democratic change I think most Americans would like to see,” Wilson said.