Leaders worldwide are promptly reacting to reports of a U.S. attack on Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Some leaders have responded diplomatically, indicating they are closely monitoring the situation and emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law. However, others have strongly criticized the U.S.’s actions as “unacceptable.”
The incident unfolded early on Saturday following a U.S. government assault on the oil-rich nation, leading to the removal of the captured Maduro and his wife from Venezuela. This move represents a significant escalation in the U.S.’s already contentious approach toward Venezuela.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the events via social media shortly after 4:30 a.m. ET. According to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, Maduro and his wife have since been indicted in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York.
Global officials are closely monitoring the evolving situation, which reports indicate as the most direct U.S. intervention in the region since 1989.
Latin American leaders swiftly issued responses, with right-wing nations in support of Trump’s actions, whereas left-wing governments strongly opposed them. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned the attacks as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and international law, warning of the dangerous precedent set by such actions.
Mexico, Chile, Cuba, and Uruguay expressed their disapproval of foreign military interventions, advocating for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. In contrast, Trump supporters in Argentina, Peru, and Ecuador voiced their support for the developments.
On the global stage, Russia expressed deep concern over Maduro’s capture, labeling it a severe violation of sovereignty and international law. Iran and China strongly denounced the use of force, while traditional U.S. allies called for restraint and adherence to the rule of law.
European Union officials emphasized monitoring the situation closely, advocating for a peaceful and democratic transition in Venezuela while respecting international law. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez rejected any U.S. intervention that breaches international law, emphasizing the importance of a fair and peaceful transition for the Venezuelan people.
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the U.S. military action in Venezuela as evidence of the breakdown of the post-World War II world order. Several countries, including Italy and Poland, are actively engaging with their embassies in Venezuela to support their citizens amidst the ongoing developments.