Global Outcry Over U.S. Attack on Venezuela: Leaders React

Mon Jan 05 2026 12:30:51 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The world is responding with a mix of support and condemnation following the U.S. operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This article delves into the reactions from various nations and political leaders.

World leaders are reacting strongly to the recent U.S. military action in Venezuela which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. While U.S. allies express support for the intervention, numerous nations have condemned the strikes as violations of international law and sovereignty.

Leaders around the world have reacted with a mix of condemnation and support to the US capture of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. Following a large-scale strike on Venezuela on Saturday, Maduro and his wife were captured by US forces and removed from the country. The pair have been indicted on drug charges in New York.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his government would shed no tears for the end of Maduro's regime. In contrast, neighboring Latin American countries condemned the actions, as did Venezuela's long-term allies, Russia and China. China expressed that it was deeply shocked and strongly condemns the use of force against a sovereign country.

Russia accused the US of committing an act of armed aggression, while Iran called the strikes a flagrant violation of the country's national sovereignty. Trump stated the US will run Venezuela until we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.

Leaders from Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Cuba have voiced their concerns and outright condemnation about the US actions, underscoring the assault on sovereignty. Argentina's President Javier Milei, aligning more with Trump, spoke of freedom moves forward following the military intervention.

Starmer did not condemn the US strikes during a BBC interview and mentioned he was awaiting further facts but reiterated the UK does not view Maduro as a legitimate president. He also stated the UK government would collaborate with the US for a peaceful transition to a legitimate government reflecting the Venezuelan people's will.

The EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasized that the transition of power must respect international law, echoing sentiments from various world leaders who are calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Venezuela. Meanwhile, US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer characterized the military action as reckless due to the lack of congressional authorization.

This incident not only highlights the complexities in international relations involving the US but also sets a precedent that could redefine diplomatic norms moving forward.