The international community has been plunged into a sharp diplomatic divide following the dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by United States armed forces. The operation, which saw American troops attack targets in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas, has resulted in the extradition of Maduro and his wife to the US, where they now face serious criminal charges.
Operation Details and Immediate Aftermath
The military action unfolded on the morning of Saturday, 4th January 2026. Residents of Caracas reported at least seven explosions and low-flying aircraft as US forces moved to apprehend the Venezuelan leader. A senior Venezuelan official stated that the attack resulted in the deaths of at least 40 people, comprising both civilians and military personnel.
Following the operation, President Maduro and his wife were swiftly transported to the United States. Upon arrival, US Attorney General Pam Bondi unsealed a federal indictment charging the couple with multiple offences. The primary charge is conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, alongside counts of cocaine importation conspiracy and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices.
A World Divided: Condemnation and Applause
The unprecedented intervention has triggered starkly contrasting reactions from global capitals, highlighting a deep geopolitical fault line.
Support for the US action was voiced by several leaders. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Donald Trump's "bold and historic leadership on behalf of freedom and justice." Argentina's Javier Milei celebrated "the fall of the narco-terrorist dictator Maduro," framing the event as a battle between "GOOD" and "EVIL." Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa welcomed the move, suggesting it signalled the impending collapse of "narco-Chavista" structures across the continent.
Conversely, a number of nations issued strong condemnations. Brazilian President Lula declared the US actions had "crossed an unacceptable line" and represented a "most serious affront to Venezuela's sovereignty," calling for a vigorous international response. Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly rejected the "unilateral" military action, stating it was a clear violation of the United Nations Charter. Colombia's Gustavo Petro expressed "deep concern" over the airstrikes.
Broader International Commentary
Other reactions added further layers to the complex diplomatic picture. French President Emmanuel Macron used social media to urge that any transition in Venezuela must be "peaceful, democratic, and respectful" of its people's will. In a pointed remark, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested the US should consider applying similar tactics against Russia's Vladimir Putin for his invasion of Ukraine.
The political shockwaves extended to the future governance of Venezuela. Donald Trump stated that the United States would run Venezuela, at least temporarily, and would tap the country's vast oil reserves to sell to other nations.
The event has set a profound precedent for international law and state sovereignty, with the global response illustrating the fragmented nature of contemporary world politics. The legal proceedings against Maduro in the United States are now set to become a focal point of continued international scrutiny and debate.
