We Are With the People of Venezuela
By Sello Masilo
Pretoria, South Africa –
As global tensions rise following reports of United States military strikes on Venezuela and the alleged capture of President Nicolás Maduro, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has thrown his support behind the Venezuelan people.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on January 3, 2026, Malema declared, “We are with the people of Venezuela!✊🏿”, a simple yet powerful show of solidarity amid the unfolding crisis.
For everyday South Africans who remember our own struggles against external pressures during apartheid, Malema’s words feel like a familiar call to stand with those facing what he sees as imperialist aggression.
This statement comes at a time when the world watches Venezuela grapple with explosions in Caracas and claims from President Donald Trump of Maduro’s detention, events that have sparked international outcry.
Malema, known for his outspoken views on global imperialism and his bitter history with Trump, uses this moment to rally against what he views as U.S. overreach.
In a nation where political leaders often weigh in on international issues, Malema’s post not only backs Venezuela but highlights his long-standing criticism of Trump, who has in the past made controversial claims about South Africa
, like alleging a “genocide” of white farmers – statements Malema has dismissed as lies meant to stir division.
As 2026 begins, this act of solidarity could strengthen ties between progressive movements in Africa and Latin America, while reminding South Africans of the importance of unity against foreign interference.
With Malema’s past praise for Venezuelan leaders like Hugo Chávez and his calls for nationalisation inspired by Venezuela’s policies, his support feels consistent with his fight for economic freedom and anti-imperialism.
Malema’s message on X has gone viral, drawing thousands of likes and shares, and sparking debates on social media about South Africa’s role in global affairs.
Let’s dive deeper into the context, Malema’s history with Venezuela, and his rocky relationship with Trump.
Malema’s Post: A Fist of Solidarity Amid Crisis
Julius Malema’s X post – “We are with the people of Venezuela!✊🏿” – came shortly after news broke of U.S. airstrikes on Venezuelan military sites and Trump’s claim of capturing Maduro.
The raised fist emoji, a symbol of resistance, underscores Malema’s message of support for Venezuelans facing what he sees as an unjust attack.
Posted from his verified account with over 3 million followers, it quickly gained traction, amassing thousands of interactions within hours.
This is not Malema’s first show of solidarity with Venezuela. Back in 2012, he saluted the victory of then-President Hugo Chávez, calling him the “Commander in Chief of the Bolivarian Revolution in Venezuela and Latin America.
In 2010, as leader of the ANC Youth League, Malema planned a study trip to Venezuela to learn about nationalisation policies, showing his long interest in the country’s socialist model.
These past statements tie into his current support, viewing Venezuela’s struggles as part of a broader fight against imperialism.
For South Africans, Malema’s stance resonates with our history.
During apartheid, international solidarity helped end the regime, and Malema often draws parallels to current global injustices.
His post could inspire more Africans to speak out, strengthening ties with Latin American nations facing similar pressures.
Bold Malema-Trump Rivalry: A History of Clashes
Malema’s solidarity with Venezuela also highlights his ongoing feud with Donald Trump.
The two have traded barbs for years, with Trump making controversial claims about South Africa that Malema has fiercely rejected.
In 2018, Trump tweeted about “large-scale killing of farmers” in SA, alleging a “white genocide” – a narrative Malema called “racist lies” meant to divide. Malema accused Trump of stirring hate and warned him to stay out of SA affairs.
This tension escalated in 2025 when Trump, during his campaign, again referenced SA farm murders, prompting Malema to fire back: “We will not retreat!”
He labelled Trump’s views as imperialist, tying them to broader U.S. actions like those in Venezuela.
Malema has often criticised Trump’s “America First” policy as bullying weaker nations, seeing the Venezuela strikes as more of the same.
Their rivalry peaked in 2024 when Malema mocked Trump’s election chances, only for Trump to win and renew attacks on leaders like Malema.
This backstory makes Malema’s Venezuela post feel like a direct jab at Trump, standing with Maduro against what he sees as U.S. overreach.
Venezuela’s Crisis: Context Behind Malema’s Support
The U.S. strikes on January 3, 2026, targeted military sites in Caracas and nearby areas, causing blackouts and chaos.
Trump claimed the operation captured Maduro, but Maduro denied this, calling it “fake news” and declaring emergency. Explosions at Fort Tiuna and La Carlota airport left residents terrified, with street fighting reported.
Venezuela’s woes stem from years of sanctions, economic collapse, and political division. Maduro accuses the U.S. of aggression to seize oil reserves, while Trump labels him a drug lord.
For Malema, this fits his anti-imperialist views, seeing U.S. actions as meddling in sovereign nations – much like criticisms of Western involvement in Africa.
Malema’s past trips, like the 2010 visit to study nationalisation in Venezuela, show his admiration for their model. He praised Chávez in 2012 as a revolutionary leader, aligning with EFF’s push for land reform and state control in SA.
Global Reactions: Outcry and SA’s Stance
Leaders worldwide condemned the strikes. Brazil’s Lula called it crossing “an unacceptable line,” urging a summit. Colombia slammed “bombing Caracas,” while Mexico echoed restraint.
South Africa called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting, viewing it as a threat to peace. This reflects our non-interference policy, with Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola stressing dialogue.
Russia and China backed Maduro, vowing aid. Oil prices jumped 5 percent, hitting importers like SA.
Implications for SA: Economic Ripples and Solidarity
For South Africans, higher oil prices mean costlier fuel, adding to inflation at 5 percent. With BRICS ties to China and Russia, SA navigates carefully, balancing trade with the U.S.
Malema’s post boosts EFF’s anti-imperialist image, appealing to youth frustrated with inequality. In 2026 local elections, this could sway votes, positioning EFF as a voice against foreign meddling.
Path Forward: Hopes for De-Escalation
As tensions rise, mediation calls grow. Lula’s summit could de-escalate. The UN warns of humanitarian fallout.
For Trump, this tests “America First,” risking entanglement. Maduro’s defiance suggests resistance, potentially drawing allies.
For 2026, this could redefine relations, with hopes for dialogue. Venezuelans pray for peace, but uncertainty looms. In a connected world, this affects all – calling for wisdom over force.
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