Leaders around the world are rapidly reacting to the U.S. military operation that occurred in Venezuela early Saturday, leading to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. This action represents a significant escalation in the U.S.’s already controversial approach toward the oil-rich nation.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the developments via social media around 4:30 a.m. ET. Following their capture, Maduro and Flores were indicted in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York, as confirmed by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Responses from global leaders have varied significantly. While some are monitoring the situation and urging respect for the rule of law, others have vehemently condemned the U.S.’s actions, labeling them “unacceptable.” This marks the most direct intervention by the U.S. in the region since 1989, raising concerns about sovereignty and international law.
In Latin America, the polarized response reflects the region’s political divides. Leaders from right-wing nations, such as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, have criticized the U.S. operation. Lula described the bombings and Maduro’s capture as a “grave affront to Venezuela’s sovereignty,” warning that this represents a “flagrant violation” of international law and recalls “the worst moments of interference” in Latin American politics.
Countries including Mexico, Chile, Cuba, and Uruguay have publicly rejected foreign military interventions, emphasizing the need for dialogue and negotiation. Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned the unilateral military actions, advocating for peaceful conflict resolution.
In contrast, supporters of Trump in countries like Argentina, Peru, and Ecuador have expressed approval of the U.S. operation. Argentinian President Javier Milei, a staunch ally of Trump, celebrated the developments, declaring, “LA LIBERTAD AVANZA. VIVA LA LIBERTAD CARAJO,” which translates to “freedom moves forward. Long live freedom dammit.”
As the situation unfolds, global powers are also weighing in. Russia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed “extreme concern” regarding Maduro’s capture, denouncing it as a “grave violation of sovereignty and international law.” The ministry criticized the U.S. for committing an act of armed aggression against Venezuela, stating that the justifications for such actions are “untenable.”
Iran and China, both adversaries of the U.S., also articulated strong criticisms. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei emphasized the importance of resisting foreign intervention, stating, “one must stand firmly against the enemy and bare one’s chest in resistance.” Meanwhile, China expressed “shock” and condemned the use of force against Venezuela.
Some traditional U.S. allies have taken a more measured approach. Officials from the European Union have called for restraint and adherence to international law. EU representative for foreign affairs Kaja Kallas stated that the situation is being closely monitored, reiterating that any solution must respect the principles of international law and the UN Charter.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez echoed similar sentiments, declaring that Spain would not recognize a U.S. intervention that violates international law. He emphasized the need for all parties to prioritize the civilian population and work toward a fair transition.
The backlash against the U.S. operation underscores a growing divide in international perspectives on intervention and sovereignty. As tensions rise, leaders from various nations are calling for peaceful resolutions and dialogue to avert further escalation. The global community remains on edge, keenly observing how this unprecedented military engagement will impact not only Venezuela but also the broader geopolitical landscape.
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