Protesters condemned the United States’ threats to Latin America, particularly Venezuela and Colombia, outside the State Library on November 23.
The US has sent warships, planes and soldiers to the Caribbean. It has sunk 22 small boats in the Caribbean and the Pacific, killing 83 people, who were claimed, without evidence, to be drug traffickers.
Claudia, a Colombian-Australian, said it is “terrifying” to see the US military build-up. She said one reason for the US threats was Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s condemnation of the US support for Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
Marisol Salinas, representing the Latin American Solidarity Network, spoke about the history of US attacks on Latin America. She said the US wanted to control the continent’s natural resources.
Chris Slee, speaking on behalf of Socialist Alliance, called on the Australian government to stand up for international law, condemn the US’ illegal actions and break the US war alliance.
Other speakers included representatives of the Australia-Cuba Friendship Society, Red Spark and Red Ant.