The defiant stance of the Sánchez administration in Madrid has become one of the most significant diplomatic obstacles for the U.S.-led coalition. Spain remains the most vocal Western opponent of Operation Epic Fury, citing the “illegal and reckless” nature of the strikes on Iran.
Turkey’s diplomatic push to end the war is driven by urgent self-preservation, fearing a Kurdish autonomous zone in Iran and a catastrophic refugee wave. With soaring energy costs widening its deficit and a shared 350-mile border, Ankara is positioning itself as a mediator to prevent regional collapse and domestic instability.
Maduro’s capture hasn’t ended Venezuela’s crisis. Nearly 8 million Venezuelans abroad still rely on temporary protections now at risk of being revoked. With TPS ended in the U.S. and permits expiring across Latin America, millions face possible deportation to a country still unstable and economically collapsed. Removing one leader hasn’t resolved the conditions that forced them to flee.
