Global Response to U.S. Capture of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro

Global leaders are responding rapidly and vocally to the United States’ recent military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The U.S. action, which took place early Saturday morning, has sparked a wide range of diplomatic responses across the globe.

Details of the U.S. Operation

At approximately 4:30 a.m. ET on Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced via social media that a large-scale strike had been conducted against Venezuela. The operation culminated in the capture of Maduro and his wife, who were subsequently flown out of the country. This marks a significant escalation in U.S. interventions in Venezuela and is considered the most direct U.S. military action in the region since 1989.

Reactions from Latin America

The response from Latin American leaders has been polarized. Right-wing governments generally supported Trump’s actions, while those led by leftist leaders strongly condemned the operation.

• Brazil: President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his outrage, stating that the U.S. actions represent “an unacceptable line” and a “grave affront to Venezuela’s sovereignty.”
• Mexico: The Foreign Affairs Ministry stated that dialogue is the only legitimate means to resolve conflicts, firmly condemning the U.S. military action as unilateral and unwelcome.
• Argentina: President Javier Milei, a Trump ally, celebrated the capture stating, “VIVA LA LIBERTAD CARAJO,” reflecting fervent support among some sectors.
• Ecuador: President Gabriel Noboa remarked that “time is coming for all the narco-Chavista criminals,” indicating support for U.S. actions.

International Responses

Beyond Latin America, global reactions vary significantly. Major powers and organizations have voiced their concerns.

• Russia: The Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed “extreme concern,” denouncing the action as a “grave violation of sovereignty.”
• China: Officials expressed “shock” and condemned the use of force by the U.S.
• Iran: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged resistance against U.S. aggression, emphasizing national sovereignty.
• European Union: Leaders called for restraint and adherence to international law but did not directly condemn the U.S. action.
• Spain: The Foreign Affairs Ministry advocated for moderation and actions in line with international law, reflecting a cautious stance amid celebrations by some Venezuelans in Spain.

Global Implications

The ramifications of the U.S. attack are significant. This incident not only escalates tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela but also raises questions about the future of international relations in the region. Observers cite this event as a potentially dangerous precedent for foreign military involvement in Latin America.

As the situation develops, leaders from various nations continue to monitor the unfolding events, emphasizing the importance of respecting sovereignty and international law.