Leaders worldwide are promptly reacting to reports of a U.S. attack on Venezuela and the subsequent capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. While some leaders are diplomatically monitoring the situation and emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law, others have strongly criticized the U.S.’s actions as “unacceptable.”
The news emerged early on Saturday following a U.S. government attack on the oil-rich nation, resulting in the removal of Maduro and his wife from Venezuela — a significant escalation in the U.S.’s contentious approach to the country. President Donald Trump initially disclosed the events on social media shortly after 4:30 a.m. ET. Maduro and his wife have since been indicted in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York, as confirmed by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi on the social media platform X.
Officials globally are closely monitoring the unfolding events, which reportedly represent the most direct U.S. intervention in the region since 1989.
In Latin America, officials from various countries have swiftly responded. Right-wing nations in the region have expressed more support for the U.S.’s actions, while left-wing governments have strongly denounced them. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva issued a detailed critique on X, condemning the attacks on Venezuela’s sovereignty and highlighting the breach of international law.
Mexico, Chile, Cuba, and Uruguay have stated their opposition to foreign military interventions, with Mexico emphasizing the need for dialogue and negotiation as the legitimate means to resolve differences. Conversely, supporters of Trump in Argentina, Peru, and Ecuador have endorsed the developments.
On the global stage, major players such as Russia have expressed deep concern over Maduro’s capture, denouncing it as a violation of sovereignty and international law. Iran and China have vehemently criticized the use of force, while traditional U.S. allies have called for restraint and adherence to the rule of law.
European Union officials have refrained from condemning Trump’s actions, opting instead to closely monitor the situation and emphasize the importance of respecting international law and promoting a peaceful transition in Venezuela. European leaders, including the Prime Minister of Spain and the Slovakian Prime Minister, have voiced their concerns about the breakdown of the post-World War II world order due to the U.S. military action in Venezuela.
Several countries, including Italy and Poland, have confirmed their engagement with embassies in Venezuela to assist their citizens amid the ongoing developments.