Major global powers have united in criticism of the United States following a military strike on Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The operation, executed by US forces on Saturday, has been characterized by France, Russia, China, and the European Union as a clear violation of established international law and the UN Charter.
The Trump administration has justified the action as part of efforts to combat drug trafficking, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicating that criminal charges awaiting Maduro in New York will focus on narcotics trade. The captured leaders are currently aboard a US ship and are being transported to face prosecution, despite Russian demands for their release.
Brazil’s Lula da Silva drew historical parallels to decades of US military interference in Latin America, calling the current action an unacceptable crossing of boundaries. China’s foreign ministry issued a particularly strong statement expressing shock and condemning what it described as hegemonic behavior that threatens regional peace and security.
UN officials have emphasized the importance of respecting international law, with Secretary General Guterres highlighting concerns that fundamental rules governing relations between nations have been disregarded. The European Union leadership, including Commission President von der Leyen, has called for adherence to established international norms and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Political divisions within South America have become apparent in the wake of the strikes, with conservative leaders offering support while progressive governments express outrage. Colombia has mobilized its military in response to potential refugee flows, and analysts question whether regime change can be achieved through external military force or if Venezuela’s political system will simply produce new leaders from within the existing power structure.
International Community Condemns Trump’s Venezuelan Military Operation
