World Leaders React to US Capture of Venezuelan Leader Nicolás Maduro

Global Reactions to US Actions

Leaders from around the world have reacted with a mix of condemnation and support regarding the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by American forces. Following a major operation on Saturday, Maduro and his wife were apprehended and removed from the country, facing accusations of drug trafficking in New York.

In an initial response, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that his government would not "mourn" the end of Maduro's regime. Neighboring Latin American countries condemned the actions, as did Venezuela's long-term allies, Russia and China. China expressed that it is "deeply shocked and strongly condemns" the use of force against a sovereign nation and its president.

Russia accused the US of "an act of armed aggression," while Iran, in conflict with Trump, termed the attacks a "flagrant violation of national sovereignty." Trump stated that the US would "administer" Venezuela "until we can make a safe, appropriate, and judicious transition." The majority of Latin American leaders condemned the American actions, with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva asserting that they "exceed an unacceptable limit."

Colombian President Gustavo Petro labeled the attacks as an "assault on the sovereignty" of Latin America, while Chilean President Gabriel Boric expressed "concern and condemnation," calling for a "peaceful solution" to the serious crisis in the country. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel accused the US of a "criminal attack," and Uruguay stated that it is monitoring the situation "with attention and seriousness," rejecting military intervention.

Adding a layer of complexity, Buenos Aires leader Javier Milei, described by Trump as his "favorite president," took to social media to proclaim, "freedom moves forward" and "long live freedom." Additionally, Starmer refrained from commenting on whether the military action could be deemed a violation of international law, stating he would wait for all facts to be established.

Within the European Union, high-ranking diplomat Kaja Kallas reiterated that Maduro lacks legitimacy, emphasizing the need for a peaceful power transition. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the transition must be "peaceful, democratic, and respectful of the will of the Venezuelan people." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern that the rules of international law were not upheld.