In a dramatic escalation of tensions, former US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States will effectively "run" Venezuela following a military operation that targeted the South American nation and led to the capture of its leader, Nicolas Maduro.
Operation and Aftermath
The announcement came after overnight strikes and a raid that resulted in Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being flown out of the capital, Caracas. Trump stated that both have been indicted on "narco-terrorism" charges. He shared an image on his Truth Social platform purporting to show the detained Venezuelan president aboard the USS Iwo Jima.
Trump justified the unprecedented move, stating America would administer the oil-rich country until a "safe, proper and judicious transition" of power could be secured. "We don't want to be involved with having somebody else get in and we have the same situation," he told a news conference, referencing years of political strife. He added that large US oil firms would invest billions to repair Venezuela's infrastructure.
UK Response and International Reaction
In the UK, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was quick to distance Britain from the events, asserting the country was not involved "in any way". Speaking on Saturday, 3rd January 2026, Starmer emphasised the need to "establish the facts" before commenting on the legality of the action, resisting calls for immediate condemnation.
The Prime Minister confirmed work was ongoing to safeguard approximately 500 British nationals in Venezuela, with the Foreign Office advising against all travel. The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, voiced profound alarm through his spokesman, stating the action set a "dangerous precedent" and appeared to disregard international law.
Domestic Political Pressure
Starmer faces mounting pressure from within his own party and opposition figures to take a firmer stance. Labour MP Kim Johnson accused Trump of an "illegal" bombing motivated by seizing resources, while Richard Burgon urged the PM to respond as he would if Russia had acted. Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel stated "nobody will shed tears" over Maduro's removal but awaited full details.
Leaders from the Liberal Democrats and Green Party condemned the strikes as unlawful, with Sir Ed Davey warning it gave a green light to other global powers. In contrast, Reform UK's Nigel Farage suggested the "unorthodox" action could deter Russian and Chinese aggression.
The situation presents a significant early diplomatic test for the new UK government, balancing alliance loyalties with the principles of international law and sovereignty.
