Obama declares Venezuela a national security threat

Obama  said Venezuela's problems cannot be solved by criminalising dissent
Obama said Venezuela’s problems cannot be solved by criminalising dissent

US President Barack Obama has issued an executive order declaring Venezuela a national security threat, and slapped sanctions on seven officials.

“Venezuelan officials past and present who violate the human rights of Venezuelan citizens and engage in acts of public corruption will not be welcome here, and we now have the tools to block their assets and their use of US financial systems,” White House spokesman Josh Earnest said in a statement on Monday.

“We are deeply concerned by the Venezuelan government’s efforts to escalate intimidation of its political opponents. Venezuela’s problems cannot be solved by criminalising dissent,” he added.

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66 Comments

  1. March 11, 2015

    Hello and good morning my people. Well it’s not surprising that America is causing problems in Venezuela which is what they do all around the World. They come into people country as NGO ‘s then they look to undermine your Government aspecially if your leader don’t want to enslave your people for American to live an easy life. They Look to divide people and cause them to fight each other while they arm both sides then they say look how barbaric they are therefore we need to send peace keepers or they just invade your country and steal your oil and natural resources. Look what they are doing in Ukraine where they over throw an elected government then they blame Russia. Look at Iraq and Afghanistan where different ethnic groups has live together for years now they are fighting each other so my people please used your head and don’t make them divide us. They created ISIS to fight the Syrian government but ISIS decide the fight the Iraq government . Sorry I ran out of…

    • Francisco Telemaque
      March 11, 2015

      Tony, I am going to be as rough as possible with you on this on; I am surprise that you prefer to seek refuge in the United States, rather than Venezuela, yet you entertain prejudice against the country that rescued you:

      Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah! Tony I know that you are one of the more intelligent ones who writes comments on DNO, hence I would expect you to be aware that the United States has one of the most effective intelligence gathering of information in the world. I would suspect that there is evidence to substantiate the President findings. People like Obama are not into gossip, this man is the most powerful man alive today, on this planet.

      Why would such a successful president, perhaps the most successful president in the history of the United States risk his reputation, on a lie, or something unfounded? The United States is one nation which was never anxious to colonize any country, so why would the U.S go into peoples country and start trouble, just to show…

      • March 14, 2015

        To Mr Telemaque .

        Hello and good afternoon my people. Well Mr Telemaque I know that you are smarter than that and you haven’t refute anything I say in regards to Afghanistan , Iraq, Syria and Ukraine. I don’t have enough space to elaborate on these four countries therefore I will discuss Ukraine. Are you aware that America spent six billion dollars to undermine a democratically elected government in Ukraine and their highest ranking diplomat Victoria Nuland was on the streets of Ukraine handing out sandwiches to the demonstrators. Asked why should America interfere in other countries internal politics when no one does that to America. President Obama is no different to any other President because no of them run the country rather is run by the CIA and NSA and are you aware that there are six security clearances above that of the American President while he’s the highest elected person in America. Remember America has a controlled press and not a free press.

  2. home boy
    March 10, 2015

    long live democracy down with state control down with A L B A and their new brand of comunisim

  3. March 10, 2015

    A former US president thought Cuba was a security threat and severed America’s diplomatic ties with that nation. Obama has re-established ties with Cuba but now calls Venezuela a security threat.

    Yet Cuba is as socialist as ever it was and continues to violate the human rights of Cuban citizens. People are having a hard time understanding he reason for Obama’s flip-flop. Some think maybe this president does not hold the values and worldview as his predecessors. Scary!

    We wonder if Obama will also treat other nations as security threats because they befriend Venezuela.

    The US has all the characteristics of a school yard bully. They are adopting the attitude ”If I cannot control you I will destroy you.” It looks like they are trying to pick a fight with Venezuela. Years ago Castro said ”Give me Venezuelan oil and I will set the world on fire.” Oil! Hmmmm…

    Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill…

    • The Evangelist
      March 10, 2015

      International Evangelist my foot! Did you take time to read the entire statement so you could see and understand why Venezuela was seen as a threat to the USA? Rev what? I hope you are not faking your title like me because you sure don’t sound like a Revered. You more sound like a radical ISIS

      • March 12, 2015

        I have no problem with Obama saying Venezuela is a security threat. He would be apt to say that about any nation he cannot control. To him that nation would be a security threat.

        What I have a problem with is the man’s inconsistency. He re-establishes diplomatic relations with Cuba and then says Venezuela is a security threat.

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • Titiwi
      March 10, 2015

      Dear Rev. Surely you must profess an interest here and I would appreciate if you said so openly. As far as I know the evangelical church still faces restrictions in Cuba like not being allowed to have its own schools and proselyzing or forming bible groups on campuses.
      I understand that there is still not true freedom of religion in Cuba but maybe you are afraid to say so in order not to jeopardize the activities of your brethern? Don’t be afraid to speak up Reverend.

      • March 12, 2015

        Of course I have an interest in Cuba.

        We have work in Cuba.

        Our activities are quite restricted.

        I have said all along that there is no true religious freedom in Cuba.

        In fact that is exactly what I said. ”Cuba is as socialist as ever it was.”

        You are not well informed. Thousands of people across Canada and in other nations know I am not a ”fake” evangelist.

        Sorry, but your comment is as mixed up as a dog’s breakfast!

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

        Website:

        http://www.livinghopeministries.ca

  4. shart
    March 10, 2015

    that is the clear distinction between pm skerrit and all u lennox linton. skerrit has no problem saying who his friends are but linton says one thing in the day and something else in de night. labour party has always made it clear we are friends of all enemies of none. wat is uwp and lennox linton policy?

  5. Moreihei Ueshiba
    March 10, 2015

    If the plethora of scandals and controversy surrounding Dr. Denzil Douglas and his ouster as Prime Mnister of St.Kitts-Nevis was not enough here comes another bombshell.

    Sources close to the new Team UNITY Administration are stating that just one week before the February 16th Elections the US government REVOKED the visa of Dr. Denzil Douglas . They also indicated that this was confirmed after investigation of a number of files in Government Headquarters and was later verified by the US embassy.

    Dr. Douglas was allegedly stripped of his diplomatic visa due to his refusal to adhere to international standards and various advisories in the processing of our passports and management of our citizenship by investment scheme. The new Team Unity government has already met with top US officials and pledged to revamp the entire scheme in order to restore our reputation and integrity on the world scale.

    Dr. Douglas’ mismanagement of the St.Kitts-Nevis Citizenship by Investment Scheme…

  6. Moreihei Ueshiba
    March 10, 2015

    Obama needs to take a hard look at where there children born and where they buy properties and put de brakes on dem fellas, Venezuela & Cuba u love so stay there

  7. Doc. Love
    March 10, 2015

    Now we know, why the last general elections in Dominica had to be won at all cost. As far as Skeritt and his enterprise are concerned, the alleged $30 million spent on the election, was well spent. It is going to be interesting to see whether Skeritt declares his anger on President Obama.

  8. tru d bino q la
    March 9, 2015

    That statement by brother, O smells like the poem:
    The sexton tolls the knell of parting day
    and leaves the world to darkness and to me.

  9. too late
    March 9, 2015

    President Obama better be careful he doh mess with skerrit and blackmore. Dem fellas will shut down douglas charles international airport and prevent Americans from coming in. Garson, skerrit will ban all cruise ships from coming in , shutdown the medical school and cripple the US Economy

    • Anonymous
      March 10, 2015

      Foolish, he don’t need Skerit – it is the other way around, and the economy that will be affected will be Dominica’s not the States. When Skerit ban Americans from coming here, who will miss the revenue? Again Dominicans and by extension Dominica. So please do not write untruths it makes you look bad. Because he will have to ship his son back, remember he is American.

      • hhhm
        March 10, 2015

        Anonymous are you dotish or what? Can’t you see the sarcasm in the man’s statement?

  10. RASTAFARILEADSTHEWAY
    March 9, 2015

    They mad because Venezuelans have the cheapest gas in the world! that national security threat because there is no reason for oil prices to be so high!

    • Titiwi
      March 10, 2015

      Rasta brother, you are talking nonsense. CITGO is a U.S. company, owned by PDV America Inc, which is the property of the Venezuelan state. They have three big refineries in the U.S.A. in Texas. Louisiana and Illinois. More than that the U.S.A. never tried to nationalize them as their own unlike that revolutionary grabber Chavez, rest his soul.

  11. Jayson
    March 9, 2015

    America wants to impose it’s moral guidelines on the rest of the world??!! Utter madness! Why not start with your allies, Saudi Arabia and your Zionist friends.

    Apparently the threat was teaching the Venezuelan people their constitutional rights, attempting to provide them with free universal health care and education, redistributing wealth and land ownership. Well if that’s so, yes, Venezuala is a threat :

    It is what Chomsky refers to as “the threat of a good example.”

    • %
      March 9, 2015

      I support this move 100%. In fact, President Obama, should look at Dominica, and do the same to this corrupt, poor, struggling failed state. I just cannot believe that Venezuela is as corrupt as Dominica. I SUPPORT THE MOVE BY PRESIDENT

    • jamesd
      March 10, 2015

      What good example? Widespread shortage of basic goods? Institutionalized corruption and nepotism to further the agenda of a deluded regime, who currently has a dead man as an almost god-like figure (they have a thing called the eyes of Chavez – look it up). And to top it off now that people are fed up and rioting they respond with violence and dishonest propaganda and diversionary tactics. Is that your idea of a good example? Maybe you didn’t think about this long enough. Maybe give it another try

    • CYRIL Volney
      March 10, 2015

      Well said sir. Yankee Imperialism at its worst. If we do not voice our concerns about how our neighbors are treated, we will be next in line.

      • Titiwi
        March 10, 2015

        Well mr. Volney, with respect. I would rather be under Obama right now than Maduro, how about you Sir?

  12. Take Warning
    March 9, 2015

    In real life, If my friend is seen as posing national threat to any country and is wanted, I know they observing my every move

    • Just Observing
      March 10, 2015

      why stifle yourself with what you want to say. Go ahead and say it.

      • Take Warning
        March 10, 2015

        @Just Observing, I am forced to stifle myself because of the way DNO is handling our freedom of speech. If I were to spell it out they would either edit it to make it sound good or they would just delete it. DNO is suppressing our freedom of expression because they scared of being sued they say.

  13. Take Warning
    March 9, 2015

    Here are some of the interesting reasons why Obama declares Venezuela a national security threat:

    1.Those that violate the human rights of Venezuelan citizens and engage in acts of public corruption
    2. Those who try to escalate intimidation of its political opponents.
    3. They will target people whose actions undermine democratic processes or institutions
    4. Those who prohibit or penalize freedom of expression, or were government officials involved in public corruption.
    5. Those who are quick to blame Washington for Venezuela’s problems.

    I hope we do not have such person or persons in Dominica. If yes, they need to be VERY careful because America has their eyes on them!!!

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      And right on the Internet. There are spies taking note of all what is stated. Some are for good and some are for bad. The Internet is not safe anymore; nor are the telephone lines as land-lines and others. This is the type of world we presently reside in with much worst to come.
      Obama has approximately two more years. His opponents cannot wait to see the end of his last term; some for good reasons. I used to be an avid supporter of Obama but not today.
      The US is not my favorite place to visit although I have relatives and friends residing all over the US whom I keep in touch with. I have been to a few of those places but have no urge to visit there in a hurry, if not at all. He can sanction me from visiting the US but I am a better and fairer (just) person than he is. :lol: I really do not care!

      • Flabbergasted
        March 10, 2015

        The Facts

        I hope Obama revokes your visa. The should not be allowed entry into the United States.

        I will speak to uncle Obama to ask him to impose sanctions against your mouth!

      • Take Warning
        March 10, 2015

        well @ the facts, with all the bias comments you have been posting I am not at all surprised that you are not a supporter of Obama. You support and uphold corruption, theft, and communism and Obama and the USA are against all. We don’t need you to visit America. Maybe you need to go visit Venezuela or one of the countries of ISIS. Just make sure you don’t your friends to sell them our diplomatic passport.

    • March 9, 2015

      We are so uninformed about world affairs inDominica. America is nothing but a bully picking on weaker nations, why don,t they take on Russia, China and other powerful nations. Yes and Saudi Arabia where their human rights record is atrocious to put it midly. Why is it some of us a rejoicing over the possibily of America destabalising Venezuela. Remember Iraq, the result of Americas interference. So please people do not cut off your nose to spite your face.

    • Gary
      March 10, 2015

      Why do you write such nonsense Your so called interesting reasons why Obama declares Venezuela a national security threat says how little you are willing to think. Do you know, there are many Countries which share the same describe reasons on your list as Venezuela and the US does not designate them as a threat to it’s National security, pull the veil of you head and reclaim your thinking.

  14. The Evangelist
    March 9, 2015

    “US President Barack Obama has issued an executive order declaring Venezuela a national security threat.”

    It’s no secret that Skerrit supports every move and statements made by Venezuela and is always busy to condemn USA. With this news should we in Dominica be very concerned?

    In the 80’s Midnight groovers made this song: “Samwe douva sawe deye” the English translation is, mine is here but yours is not far.

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      Many people condemn USA. They rank among D/cans be it overseas and right in America. Whenever the topic surfaced in my presence or in the course of telephone conversations, I was one of the few who disagreed with them.
      Obama should be aware that he and his country are criticized. Some do so in private. As a politician he should not be surprised, disappointed and angry. He knows what he has been up against ever since he took office. It is worst today and for other reasons.
      Everyone including you has his/her day, sooner or later. Therefore do not rejoice.

      • Ma Moses
        March 10, 2015

        Thank God, American citizens are free to criticize President Obama without fear of repercussions. I would think we want the same freedom here!

  15. Clayton Shillingford
    March 9, 2015

    I suspect that this is only the beginning of the problems for the ALBA group..I have emailed the article with US position to Larry Birns of COHA who was responsible becasue of his affiliation with Venezuela removed the pre election state of democracy in Dominica from the COHA website consequent on complaints from Kamala Jno Baptiste and Tony Astaphan ..Let’s see what he Birns, Kamala, Tony, Skerrit have to say about this development..Is it true that Denzil Douglas visa has been revoked by the US?? Who else next?

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      Why do you not wait and see what will happen?
      When the fire and brimstones will fall on the world, I am presuming the first place it will fall on is the US. US is corrupted. Stay tuned.
      As God sees, were it not for the prayerful US people and others of the world, they would have fallen a long time ago and now. As I informed someone over the weekend, how much more our patient God can take, seeing what is occurring in the world?

    • Just Observing
      March 10, 2015

      Well said US citizen. Lick your lips and savour your moment in the glorious Dominican sunshine. Why should any Dominican be happy with the state of relations between which presently exists between the USA and Venezuela. In the last fifteen or so years Venezuela has proven in every way that they are a true friend of Dominica and has supported our development program. America on the other hand has progressively withdrawn their support for us in every and very practical ways. I suppose Clayton et all are sick with the support we have received form Venezuela. See Clayton gloat about the possibility of our students losing opportunities for scholarships. See Clayton gloat about the loss of any further support for our the Housing Revolution. Yes Clayton, you are a sick man trying the same thing over and over again and expecting the same results – get rid of Skerrit. That is all there is to all their sleeping and waking. get rid of Skerrit by any means necessary. See what Larry does this time.

    • TELE
      March 10, 2015

      It might well be you next Clayton!

    • Gary
      March 10, 2015

      It bewilders me to hear you say quote “I suspect that this is only the beginning of the problems for the ALBA group” why would you go on record to advocate such thing. It shows how politically bankrupt you are.

  16. Ma Moses
    March 9, 2015

    I keep shaking my head. Why does Roosevelt Skerrit keep backing the wrong horse? He is backing Venezuela against the U.S.A, the country he chose for his son’s birth and citizenship? It just doesn’t make sense. What makes m our P.M. tick, dsoe he have a death wish for Dominica. I pray not.

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      Why are you making a mountain out of a molehill? Did the PM publicly speak against the US? Venezuela is assisting D/ca. It is natural that he would stand by – support Venezuela. To turn his back on Venezuela because it is experiencing problems and with the US is the mark of an ungrateful person and a deceitful friend. Surely, even Obama, as a human being should understand.
      Venezuela has done the PM nothing. The help Venezuela gave to Dominica is for the benefit of all nationals. Dominicans should thank Venezuela from the bottom of their hearts. You do not hate people when they have been kind to you unless you lack gratitude.

      • Flabbergasted
        March 10, 2015

        The facts

        I absolutely agree with you.

        Prime Minister Skerritt needs to impose immediate sanctions against the U.S. How dare the small US annoy Mighty Dominica!

        I am sure that Dominica is in a position to assist Venezuela with our surplus crabs and crappauds!

  17. March 9, 2015

    I wonder what Tony J has to say on that one..
    In the campaign, I took two ears and heard …. promote Venezuela’s partnership, financial commitment to Dominica, as well as it’s financial stability, when he knew full well, that every statement that came from his mouth were FALSE..Wicked, evil men.

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      Do you have more ears? :lol: Venezuela helped Dominica to this point at least. What do you expect?

    • March 10, 2015

      Dominicans is that how you want your Island to become well if you continue to allow PM and his men to adopt the very same attitude as Venezuela the USA will have no choice but to step in and order the very same sanction , and what will become of you and your families in the diaspora.
      It’s time to wake up put your Island in order you can do it, and Dominicans in the diaspora I call on you to stop dictating what the people at home should get, have respect for the men and women in DA let them decide for themselves and you accept it, if the USA put Sanctions on Dominica and it’s people it will not hurt you that much but it will for those on the Island, ask yourselves is that what we want for our people? I don’t think so.. Dominicans take control and don’t allow one individual do as he or she pleases. I see they are talking about to sensor the Media and that can only mean going after Q95 because the other Radio station are under their influence don’t allow it to happen.

  18. cb dominican
    March 9, 2015

    Bram bram bram and skerro think is a sweet cookie

  19. March 9, 2015

    Pm skerrit is on his way out. His mouth is written a cheque his can’t cash.

    • Laughter
      March 10, 2015

      CJB

      Thanks fir lifting me out of my dire misery.

      I was having a very sad day, but after reading your comment I ended up rolling on the floor with laughter.

      Thanks so very, very, very much for a funny but oh so true comment.

      Have a great day

  20. COMBOS
    March 9, 2015

    all i had to do was laugh hayhayhayhayhayhay see how the rest of the world thinking fast while our pm is readily embracing… pm Skerrit i want to hear your views on the statement by the President of USA… Mr. PM dont be ashamed,, put up your hand and say your name… i will be locked to my radio to hear what u have to say now… u selfish and hard headed….

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      Those who laugh last laughs best and get the best one. Be careful for yourself.

  21. DEAL or NO DEAL
    March 9, 2015

    Dominica has no say in America and Venezuela business!

    • Titiwi
      March 9, 2015

      You know what partner, you are right. Roosevelt Skerrit has enough to occupy him right here at home instead of trying to portray himself as the regional leader and strongman. I’m sure the other leaders getting tired of his posturing.

    • The Facts
      March 9, 2015

      I agree. The PM should remain neutral. This does not mean he cannot communicate privately with the President of Venezuela and empathize with him. After all they are friends and Venezuela has assisted Dominica.

  22. Lang Mama
    March 9, 2015

    I heard that Dominica might be able to help Maduro by supplying Venezuela with PEENEZ For insect warfare.

  23. point
    March 9, 2015

    And what is Obama doing as regards the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where under the umbrella of religion human rights are violated. Is he now going to clean his front yard? where black men are been shot in the streets as if they were dogs with no Federal action to satisfy justice. So Venezuela is the lowgate.

    • out of south city
      March 9, 2015

      America, empire of chaos always wants to impose sanctions against countries that are in opposition to her. Why can’t they take care of their own business and leave other countries alone!
      “The new set of targeted sanctions exclude the Venezuelan people and any trade relations with the oil-rich nation and are instead specifically aimed at government officials the US accuses of violating human rights.”
      Are they really serious concerning human rights? What about the death of young black men by white policemen who go free and no justice is served on the behalf of the black families? What about the equal rights and opportunities of the black population in America as far as jobs, loans, schools and housing?What about the imprisonment of black men for crimes that they have not committed?
      Obama does not represent black people in America but rather those who funded his campaign. He is just a puppet in the hands of those who put him there. He is at the forefront but he does not control…

    • Just Observing
      March 10, 2015

      When America sent hundreds of thousands of troops (Christians and muslims alike) to defend the Arabian Peninsular against “tyranny” from Sadam, the Christian soldiers could not have any form of worship on Saudi soil. The US had to outfit an aircraft carrier sailing in international waters to facilitate the Christian worship for the very soldiers that were in the region defending states like Saudi Arabia etc. The US has not dared to impose sanctions against King Fahd. Simply because of the riches under the Arabian desert. Venezuela, our friend is their punching bag. So they have unleashed a reign of terror on Venezuela. But Venezuela has something they want badly. Are they going to march into Venezuela and takeover the oil fields. I wish PM Skerrit well in how he negotiates Dominica’s position – friend of both countries in this difficult time. We have much to lose from any escalation of bad relations between the two countries. No comfort at all for the doom sayers among us.

  24. CC
    March 9, 2015

    Obama declares Venezuela a national security threat, and our PM expresses support and solidarity with Venezuela.

    Change is a must

    • forreal
      March 9, 2015

      are you suppose to bite the hand that feeds you or the one that slaps you.

      • March 10, 2015

        Get a job and no one and no one will be able to say they are giving you any hand outs for your support, give a man a fish he will not work but if you teach him how to fish he will work to better himself and family, why don’t you try it and see.

  25. March 9, 2015

    Pm skerritt will order sanctions against the U.S

    • Shameless
      March 9, 2015

      :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: Skerrit doh have his lapo bonda so let him go ahead. I smell we will soon be declared a threat also if Skerrit pass the Muzzle Legislation ala Kevlar Darroux. But I hasten to add that SSU will not be able to help him.

      Assertive, NOT Aggressive! :twisted:

    • San Hont
      March 9, 2015

      Skerrit will be responding to Obama on the behalf of Maduro! Only he can tell Obama where to go!
      Change is a must I know. The writing is on the wall for sure!!!!

    • March 10, 2015

      Neverson what does Dominica have to export tell us what and how that will be done we are waiting to hear your explanation.

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