Why Central Asian Capitals Are Staying Silent on Maduro’s Capture

While Russia and China have vociferously condemned the US operation in Venezuela to take the country’s strongman, Nicolas Maduro, into custody, Central Asian governments are adopting a restrained approach to the latest demonstration of American gunboat diplomacy. Oil interests appear to be a factor in shaping international reactions. No Central Asian state, as of January 5, has issued an official reaction to Maduro’s capture and the apparent US intention to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry. They have little incentive to…