Venezuela's interim leader has publicly invited the United States to collaborate, marking a dramatic shift following the military operation that removed President Nicolas Maduro from power. The development comes as the UK government calls for a rapid and peaceful political transition in the South American nation.
Operation and Aftermath: A New Chapter for Venezuela
The seismic shift in Venezuela's leadership began with a series of US airstrikes over the capital, Caracas, on Saturday. This was swiftly followed by the capture and detention of Mr Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were then flown to New York. The couple face narco-terrorism charges and Maduro is scheduled to make his first appearance in a New York court on Monday.
In a significant diplomatic move, the United Kingdom, a key intelligence-sharing partner of the US, confirmed it was not informed of the operation beforehand and played no role in its execution. Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, Darren Jones, stated the legality of the airstrikes was a matter for international courts to judge.
Diverging US Statements and a Venezuelan Olive Branch
The US administration has sent mixed signals regarding its future plans. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Sunday that America would not take control of Venezuela but would enforce an "oil quarantine." This contrasted sharply with President Donald Trump's earlier pledge to "run" the country until new leadership is installed, a position he later reiterated to reporters aboard Air Force One.
In this volatile context, interim President Delcy Rodriguez issued a public message via Instagram. She asserted Venezuela's rights to sovereignty and development and explicitly invited the US government to collaborate on an agenda of cooperation within the framework of international law. "We prioritise moving towards balanced and respectful international relations," she stated.
UK Political Reaction and Calls for Clarity
The UK's political response has highlighted internal divisions. While the government, through Darren Jones, emphasised the need for a Venezuelan-led transition, opposition figures were more critical. Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel suggested the UK should have anticipated the US action.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has faced pressure from within his own Labour Party to condemn the military intervention. He has resisted, arguing for the importance of the UK's close relationship with the US for security. Sir Keir stated he wished to "establish the facts" but insisted Britain would "shed no tears" over the end of Maduro's regime.
Meanwhile, the UN Security Council, of which the UK is a permanent member, is expected to meet on Monday to discuss the unfolding crisis, coinciding with Maduro's court appearance.
