Shocked World Leaders Respond to US Strike on Venezuela

Global Reactions to the US Capture of Venezuela’s President

The capture of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces has sparked a wide range of reactions from world leaders, with some expressing support and others condemning the actions as violations of international law.

Condemnation from Neighboring Countries and Allies

Several Latin American countries have strongly criticized the U.S. operation. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva described the actions as crossing an "unacceptable line" and warned that attacking countries violates international law, leading to violence and instability. Colombia's President Gustavo Petro called the strikes an "assault on the sovereignty" of Latin America, while Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel labeled it a "criminal attack." Chile's President Gabriel Boric expressed concern and condemnation, calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Cuba's leadership was particularly vocal, with President Diaz-Canel accusing the U.S. of a "criminal attack." Uruguay also expressed serious concern over the situation, stating it rejects military intervention. Meanwhile, Russia accused the U.S. of committing "an act of armed aggression," and China called the use of force against a sovereign country "deeply shocking" and condemned it strongly.

Iran, which has its own tensions with the U.S., called the strikes a "flagrant violation of the country's national sovereignty."

Support from Some Leaders and Political Figures

In contrast, some leaders have shown support for the U.S. actions. Argentinian President Javier Milei, whom Trump has praised as his "favorite president," celebrated the move with messages like "Freedom moves forward" and "Long live freedom" on social media.

U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the U.S. may take a more active role in Venezuela, suggesting that the country will be "run" until a safe and proper transition can occur. He has also hinted that Cuba could become part of a broader U.S. strategy in the region, calling it a "failing nation."

Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, describing Cuba as a "disaster" run by incompetent leaders who supported Maduro's administration.

UK and EU Responses

The UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially avoided commenting on whether the U.S. action violated international law. However, he later stated that the UK "regarded Maduro as an illegitimate president" and said they "shed no tears about the end of his regime." Starmer emphasized the need for a peaceful transition of power that reflects the will of the Venezuelan people.

The European Union's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, reiterated the bloc's stance that Maduro lacks legitimacy and called for a peaceful transition. French President Emmanuel Macron stressed that the transition must be "peaceful, democratic, and respectful of the will of the Venezuelan people." He also expressed hope that opposition candidate González could lead the process.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that the legality of the U.S. operation is "complex" and warned against political instability in Venezuela.

Concerns from the United Nations

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the operation, stating that the rules of international law were not respected. His spokesperson described the strikes as setting a "dangerous precedent." Guterres called for inclusive dialogue and respect for human rights and the rule of law in Venezuela.

Domestic Criticism in the U.S.

Within the U.S., Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the lack of congressional authorization for the military action and warned that the operation was "reckless" without a clear plan for what comes next.

Ongoing Developments

As the situation continues to unfold, the capture of Maduro has raised questions about the future of Venezuela and the role of the U.S. in the region. The responses from global leaders highlight the complex and divided nature of the international community's stance on this unprecedented event.