Forum Topic

Farage makes embarrassing licking noises

Nigel Farage MP@Nigel_Farage·3 Jan"The American actions in Venezuela overnight are unorthodox and contrary to international law — but if they make China and Russia think twice, it may be a good thing."China and Russia may indeed see Trump's illegal invasion as a good thing. A good argument for their actions in Ukraine (now) and Taiwan (soon).

David Ainsworth ● 21h4 Comments

And from the BBC's rolling news:Maduro likely to argue he has immunity from charges - former NY prosecutorpublished at 11:4411:44Maduro's first appearance in court in New York is unlikely to differ from any other, a former federal prosecutor in the state tells the BBC.But at a later point in the case "the defendants are highly likely to say they have sovereign immunity" on some or even all of the charges as heads of state, Andrew Weissman told BBC Radio 4's Today programme earlier.The US government is likely to argue that they do not recognise Maduro as a legitimate head of state, Weissman says."

Ivonne Holliday ● 2h

I agree Michael, a dangerous path to anarchy and/or imperialism...  Frightening!

Ivonne Holliday ● 2h

Some in the US believe it's unconstitutional: the US wasn't under a direct threat from military action and there was no congressional mandate. Probably not illegal in US law as the Supreme Court has effectively ruled that actions by a President in the course of his duties are above the law.  The President is accountable to Congress but, of course, there's no chance of impeachment at the moment but if power shifts after tge midterm elections ...I was interested in Farage’s response. Does it imply he's in favour of breaking laws if it helps one's cause; could shoplifters claim "it's against the law but I needed that Champagne t celebrate the new year with friends and family to celebrate new year and I didn't have any money left after Christmas" ... a dangerous path to anarchy? (Also similat to an argument "Stop Oil", etc use?)

Michael Ixer ● 2h

I agree with you David.  We are in very dangerous times indeed.I am impressed that Farage believes the American actions in Venezuela are unorthodox and contrary to international law.  But he will always include a clarification that will please Trump.  Robert Wilkie, who served as under secretary of defence for readiness in Trump's first administration stresses the operation was "certainly" legal under American law "because [Maduro] is an illegitimate leader".Which will prevail, international law or American law?  As far as Russia and China are concerned, as you say, gives them a very good argument for their actions in Ukraine and possibly Taiwan....  What a mess!

Ivonne Holliday ● 2h