Prime Minister Keir Starmer has broken his silence on the dramatic US military strikes in Venezuela, stating his intention to speak directly with President Donald Trump while emphasising the critical need to uphold international law.
Fast-Moving Situation in Caracas
The crisis unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, 3rd January 2026, when a series of powerful explosions rocked Venezuela's capital, Caracas. Residents reported at least seven blasts, with low-flying aircraft heard overhead and smoke seen rising from multiple locations.
US President Donald Trump subsequently announced that "large scale strikes against Venezuela" had been carried out. He claimed the country's leader, Nicolás Maduro, along with his wife Cilia Flores, had been captured and flown out of the nation.
Key military sites, including Fort Tiuna—home to the Venezuelan ministry of defence—are believed to have been targeted. Areas in southern Caracas near a major military base were left without electricity in the aftermath.
Starmer's Cautious Response
Speaking to the BBC, the Prime Minister pointedly refused to condemn the American-led operation. Keir Starmer confirmed the UK was not involved and stated his immediate priority was establishing the full facts of the rapidly evolving situation.
"What I can say is that the UK was not involved in this operation," Starmer said. "As you can expect, we are focusing on British nationals in Venezuela and working very closely with our Embassy."
When pressed to criticise President Trump's actions, the PM reiterated his stance. "First, I want to speak to President Trump. I want to speak to allies... I always say, and believe we should all uphold international law. But I think at this stage, it’s a fast-moving situation, establish the facts and take it from there."
Safety of British Nationals Paramount
The Prime Minister revealed that the UK government is urgently focused on the safety of approximately 500 British citizens currently in Venezuela.
"We’re working with the Embassy to make sure they are well looked after – safeguarded and get appropriate advice," Starmer assured. "There is a small number but an important number, about 500."
The military intervention follows years of heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela. President Trump has long accused the Maduro regime of narco-terrorism, with Maduro himself being indicted on related charges in the United States back in 2020.
Political Pressure to Condemn
Starmer's cautious approach has already drawn criticism from opposition leaders. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey urged the PM to label the US operation as illegal, warning it sets a dangerous precedent for global security.
Similarly, Green Party co-leader Zack Polanski called on the government to condemn the "illegal strike and breach of international human rights law."
All eyes are now on Washington, where President Trump is expected to hold a press conference, potentially providing further details on the operation and the fate of the captured Venezuelan leader.
