Global reaction poured in on Saturday after the United States launched a large-scale military strike on Venezuela, with US President Donald Trump announcing that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been captured and flown out of the country. The dramatic development has triggered widespread concern, condemnation and calls for restraint from governments across Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East.
According to Trump’s statement posted on Truth Social, US forces carried out a “successful large-scale strike” targeting Venezuela’s leadership. Multiple explosions were reported in the capital, Caracas, with thick black smoke visible over parts of the city. Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino responded by vowing resistance against the presence of foreign troops, signaling that tensions could escalate further.
The strike follows months of increasing US military and economic pressure on Maduro’s government, which has already been grappling with severe economic challenges linked to sanctions and declining oil revenues. The sudden military action, however, has raised serious concerns about regional stability and respect for international law.
In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer stressed the importance of upholding international law. He confirmed that Britain had no involvement in the operation and said he intended to speak with US President Trump and allied leaders to clarify the situation. Starmer reiterated that respect for sovereignty and global legal norms must remain central during international crises.
Iran strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “flagrant violation of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.” Mexico echoed similar concerns, warning that unilateral military action seriously jeopardises regional stability and rejecting the use of force against Venezuela.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for de-escalation and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the United Nations Charter. He warned against actions that could endanger civilians and said Colombia was taking preventive measures along its border to manage potential humanitarian or migration challenges.
Cuba reacted sharply, with President Miguel Diaz-Canel denouncing the strike as a “criminal attack” and calling it state terrorism. Russia also condemned the operation, describing it as an act of armed aggression and urging dialogue to prevent further escalation.
The European Union issued a collective call for restraint. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and European Council President Antonio Costa both stressed that any resolution must respect international law and the UN Charter. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc supports a peaceful and democratic solution while closely monitoring the safety of EU citizens in Venezuela. Spain offered to help negotiate a peaceful outcome.
Germany, Italy and Belgium confirmed that their diplomatic and crisis response teams were monitoring developments closely, particularly to ensure the safety of their nationals in the region. Indonesia also urged dialogue, de-escalation and protection of civilians.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah issued a statement condemning the US action and expressing solidarity with Venezuela’s government and people.
As the situation continues to unfold, international focus remains on whether diplomatic efforts can prevent further conflict. The coming days are expected to be critical in determining the broader impact of the US action on regional stability and global geopolitics.
