World Leaders React to U.S. Strike on Venezuela, Maduro Capture/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Global leaders reacted sharply to the U.S. military strike in Venezuela and President Trump’s claim that Nicolás Maduro was captured. Nations across Latin America, Europe, and Asia expressed concern or outright condemnation of the action as illegal and dangerous. While some allies cautiously supported Trump, many warned the move undermines international law and risks escalating global tensions.
Quick Look: Global Reaction to U.S. Strike on Venezuela and Maduro’s Capture
- U.S. Strike: President Trump announced a successful U.S. military operation in Venezuela, claiming President Nicolás Maduro was captured and flown out of the country.
- Global Condemnation: Countries including Russia, Iran, Germany, Italy, Chile, and Colombia condemned the strike as a violation of international law and a threat to global stability.
- Cautious Responses: The EU, Spain, Indonesia, and Trinidad & Tobago called for de-escalation, urging dialogue and respect for sovereignty.
- Supportive Voices: Leaders like Argentina’s Javier Milei and UK’s Nigel Farage cautiously praised the move, framing it as a potential turning point for Venezuela.
- UN Concerns: Multiple nations are urging an emergency UN Security Council meeting, with legal experts warning the strike lacks international legal justification.
Deep Look: Global Response to U.S. Venezuela Strike Divides International Community
CARACAS / WASHINGTON — Jan. 3, 2026 — The U.S. military’s strike on Venezuela and the reported capture of President Nicolás Maduro by American forces triggered a wave of international reaction on Saturday, ranging from outright condemnation to cautious support. President Donald Trump announced the operation on social media, declaring it a “successful mission” that removed Maduro from power.
While the U.S. claims it acted to uphold justice and dismantle narco-terrorism operations, world leaders warned the strike could destabilize the region and violate international law.
Key Global Reactions:
Russia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Condemned the U.S. action as “armed aggression.”
- Called the justifications “unfounded” and driven by ideological hostility.
- Urged the international community to prevent escalation and protect Venezuela’s sovereignty.
- Supported a call for an emergency UN Security Council meeting.
European Union – Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas
- Stated Maduro “lacks legitimacy” but urged restraint and respect for international law and the UN Charter.
- Confirmed communication with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and EU officials in Caracas.
Chile – President Gabriel Boric
- Condemned the U.S. military strike and called for a peaceful resolution.
- Reaffirmed commitment to non-intervention and territorial integrity.
Colombia – President Gustavo Petro
- Voiced deep concern over explosions and air activity in Venezuela.
- Rejected “any unilateral military action” that could endanger civilians.
- Called for adherence to the UN Charter and peaceful dispute resolution.
Iran – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
- Criticized the U.S. strike as part of “arrogant enemy tactics.”
- Urged resistance and promised that Venezuela and its allies would bring the U.S. “to its knees.”
Spain – Foreign Ministry
- Urged de-escalation and moderation in accordance with international law.
- Offered to mediate for a peaceful, negotiated solution.
Trinidad and Tobago – PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar
- Clarified that her nation is not involved in the military operations.
- Emphasized commitment to peaceful relations with Venezuela.
Germany – MP Roderich Kiesewetter (CDU)
- Accused the U.S. of abandoning the post-WWII rules-based order.
- Called the strike a return to “old U.S. imperialist thinking.”
United Kingdom – Nigel Farage (Reform UK Party)
- Called the strike “unorthodox” and potentially “illegal,”
- Added it might still deter adversaries like Russia and China.
- Expressed hope for positive change in Venezuela post-Maduro.
Italy – Giuseppe Conte (Opposition Leader)
- Condemned the strike as a blatant violation of international law.
- Warned that double standards in applying global rules endanger everyone.
Chatham House (UK Think Tank) – Marc Weller
- Declared the U.S. strike “legally unjustified.”
- Emphasized that only UN-mandated or self-defense actions are lawful uses of military force.
Indonesia – Foreign Ministry
- Called for de-escalation and dialogue.
- Urged protection of civilians and adherence to international law.
Belarus – Foreign Ministry
- Categorically condemned the strike as a threat to global peace.
- Expressed support for Maduro’s government and Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Hezbollah (Lebanon-based armed group)
- Labeled the U.S. action “terrorist aggression” and “American thuggery.”
- Declared full solidarity with the Venezuelan government.
Summary of Themes:
| Position | Countries/Entities |
|---|---|
| Strongly Condemn | Russia, Iran, Belarus, Hezbollah, Italy, Germany, Colombia, Chile |
| Concerned / Cautious | Spain, EU, Indonesia, UK (via Farage), Trinidad & Tobago |
| Supportive or Positive | Argentina (via earlier statement), UK Reform Party (tentative), U.S. officials |
Key Legal Criticisms:
- Violation of UN Charter (Article 2(4) prohibits the use of force)
- No UN Security Council authorization
- No clear self-defense justification
- Undermines principles of state sovereignty and non-intervention
Next Steps:
- Calls for an emergency UN Security Council meeting are gaining traction.
- Legal analysts predict a wave of diplomatic pushback at upcoming international forums.
- The U.S. has not yet provided full details on Maduro’s detention, location, or legal process.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.