Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated his intention to speak with US President Donald Trump following dramatic American military strikes in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of the country's leader, Nicolás Maduro. The UK leader, breaking his silence on Saturday, 3rd January 2026, refused to condemn the operation, emphasising a need to first "establish all the facts".
Fast-Moving Situation in Caracas
The crisis unfolded in the early hours when a series of explosions rocked Venezuela's capital, Caracas. Residents reported at least seven blasts and low-flying aircraft over the city. Key military sites, including the Fort Tiuna defence ministry complex, were reportedly hit, and areas near a major military base lost power.
President Trump later confirmed "large scale strikes against Venezuela" had been executed, announcing that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been "captured and flown out of the country." The action culminates a long-standing feud, with Trump historically accusing Venezuela of narco-terrorism; Maduro was indicted on such charges by the US in 2020.
Starmer's Cautious Response
Speaking to the BBC, PM Starmer was clear on one point: "the UK was not involved in this operation." He outlined his immediate priorities, stating, "What I can say is that the UK was not involved in this operation. 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, Starmer repeatedly declined, stressing the situation was "fast-moving" and required consultation with allies. "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," he said.
Safety of British Nationals and Political Reaction
The Prime Minister confirmed that approximately 500 British nationals are in Venezuela, and the government is working with the embassy to ensure their safety and provide appropriate advice.
His cautious stance drew immediate criticism from opposition leaders. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey urged Starmer to "condemn Trump’s illegal action," warning it set a dangerous precedent for global powers. Green Party co-leader Zack Polanski, posting on X, called for condemnation of the "illegal strike and breach of international human rights law."
As smoke cleared over parts of Caracas, the international community awaited further details, with Starmer indicating he would watch President Trump's promised press conference for more information before taking a definitive position.
