The United States has faced widespread international condemnation after launching airstrikes on Venezuela's capital and capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. France, Russia, China, and the European Union are among those accusing Washington of violating international law.
The operation, carried out by US troops on Saturday, has drawn sharp criticism from world leaders. UN Secretary General António Guterres warned that the action sets a 'dangerous precedent' and stressed the importance of respecting the UN Charter. China's foreign ministry condemned the 'hegemonic behaviour' of the US, stating it threatens peace and security in Latin America.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Maduro and Flores would face criminal charges in New York related to the drug trade. President Donald Trump confirmed the couple had been taken to a ship and would be transferred to New York. Russia has called for their release.
Reaction in South America has been divided. Left-wing leaders, including Brazil's Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Colombia's Gustavo Petro, and Mexico's Claudia Sheinbaum, denounced the intervention. Lula compared the US action to 'the darkest moments of interference in Latin America'. Conversely, Argentina's President Javier Milei, a Trump ally, celebrated the operation, posting 'Liberty advances!' on social media.
Colombia has mobilised its armed forces following the strikes, expressing concern about a potential humanitarian crisis. The EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also called for adherence to international law, with Barrot stating that no lasting political solution can be imposed from outside.
