In brief
A mix of global reaction has erupted following the US military's capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. While some leaders express support for the action against what they view as a dictatorship, many others, including allies of Venezuela like Russia and China, condemn it as an unprecedented violation of sovereignty. Key responses from leaders in Latin America, Europe, and the US underline the complex geopolitical implications of this operation.
Leaders around the world have responded with a mix of condemnation and support to the US capture of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. Following a large-scale strike on Venezuela, Maduro and his wife were taken by US forces. They face serious drug charges in New York.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated his government would shed no tears for the end of Maduro's regime. However, neighboring Latin American countries and Venezuela's long-time allies, including Russia and China, have condemned the US actions. China described the military action as deeply shocking and a violation of sovereignty.
Russia accused the US of armed aggression, while Iran labeled the strikes a flagrant violation of national sovereignty. President Trump proclaimed the US will run Venezuela until a safe and proper transition occurs.
Latin American leaders joined the chorus of condemnation. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the US for crossing an unacceptable line, warning that military intervention leads to chaos and instability. Colombian President Gustavo Petro labeled the strikes as an assault on sovereignty, and Chile's Gabriel Boric also expressed profound concern.
Meanwhile, some leaders supported the US actions; Argentinian President Javier Milei celebrated the developments on social media, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s leadership as bold and historic.\
UK Prime Minister Starmer did not initially condemn the US strikes and avoided commenting on their legality, noting the UK would wait for more facts. He emphasized the importance of a peaceful transition reflecting the will of the Venezuelan people.
Responses from European leaders reflected a variety of positions. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged the need for a peaceful and legal transition of power, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the violation of international law.
As the situation evolves, numerous countries, including Canada and Norway, are voicing their commitment to follow international law while calling for stability in Venezuela.
