04.01.2026 08:40
The United States' military operation against Venezuela to bring President Maduro to New York has sparked reactions on the international stage. While China, Russia, Iran, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, and many other countries condemned the attack, Israel, Ukraine, and some countries openly supported the U.S.
The U.S. special forces bombed Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, and detained President Nicolas Maduro. It was announced that Maduro was taken to New York along with his wife.
CALL FOR "RESTRAINT" FROM TURKEY
Turkey stated that it is closely monitoring the recent developments in Venezuela. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made a written statement regarding the U.S.'s large-scale attacks in Venezuela. The statement emphasized that the recent developments in Venezuela are being closely monitored, stating, "Turkey attaches importance to the stability of Venezuela and the peace and well-being of the Venezuelan people. We call on all parties to act with restraint to ensure that the current situation does not have negative consequences for regional and international security."
The statement indicated that Turkey is ready to provide any constructive contribution to resolve the crisis in Venezuela within the framework of international law, noting that the Turkish Embassy in Caracas is maintaining uninterrupted communication and necessary coordination with Turkish citizens in the country.
CONDEMNATION FROM CHINA
In a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was noted that the U.S. actions, described as "hegemonic," violate international law and Venezuela's sovereignty, threatening peace and security in the Latin America and Caribbean region. The statement used the expression, "China is deeply shocked by the U.S. use of force against a sovereign country and its president, and strongly condemns it."
The statement emphasized China's opposition to the U.S. actions, calling on the Washington administration to adhere to international law and the purposes and principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, and to cease violations of the sovereignty and security of other countries.
RUSSIA SAID "ALARMING"
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the U.S. attack on Venezuela, describing it as "extremely alarming." In a statement from the ministry, it was reminded that the U.S. carried out an armed attack against Venezuela this morning, stating, "This is an extremely alarming situation that must be condemned."
The statement emphasized that the justifications used to justify such actions are baseless, indicating that ideological hostility has overshadowed the desire to establish business-oriented pragmatism and trust-based, predictable relations.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also demanded the immediate clarification of the situation regarding Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, who were reportedly forcibly removed from the country by the U.S.
CONDENMATION FROM IRAN
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a written statement that it condemns the U.S. military attack on Venezuela's "territorial integrity and sovereignty." The statement emphasized that the U.S. armed attack against Venezuela is contrary to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, calling on the UN to condemn the attack.
CUBA CALLS FOR A RESPONSE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel condemned the U.S., which he holds responsible for the attacks on Venezuela. In a statement made on the social media platform of American X company, Diaz-Canel expressed support for Venezuela, which has been subjected to airstrikes. Cuban President Diaz-Canel stated, "Cuba condemns the criminal attack by the U.S. against Venezuela and calls for an urgent response from the international community." Highlighting that a peaceful region is being subjected to wild attacks, Diaz-Canel accused the U.S. of "practicing state terrorism against the Venezuelan people and the Americas."
MEXICO
Mexico condemned the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, stating that it violates Article 2 of the UN Charter. In a statement from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, it was stated, "The Mexican government strongly condemns and rejects the military actions carried out unilaterally by the U.S. armed forces against Venezuelan territory, which clearly violate Article 2 of the UN Charter."
COLOMBIA
Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated that they reject any attack on the sovereignty of Venezuela and Latin America. After a meeting of the National Security Council, Petro shared on social media that they are against any attack on the sovereignty of Venezuela and Latin America. Petro also mentioned the security measures taken after the attack on Venezuela, stating that security forces have been deployed to border areas against the possibility of a mass influx of refugees from Venezuela, and that all resources have been mobilized.
BELARUS
The Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the U.S. attack on Venezuela is a direct threat to international peace and security. In a written statement from the ministry, it was reported that the Minsk administration firmly condemned the armed attack against the sovereign state of Venezuela. The statement noted that this attack poses a threat to international peace and security, stating, "Belarus expresses its unwavering support for the legitimate government of Venezuela and joins the call for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which bears primary responsibility for maintaining peace."
BRAZIL
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva condemned the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela as "unacceptable." In a statement made on the social media account of American X company, Lula stated, "The bombing of Venezuelan territory and the detention of the president have crossed an unacceptable line. These actions constitute a serious attack on Venezuela's sovereignty and set an extremely dangerous precedent for the international community."" said. The President of Brazil stated, "Attacking countries by clearly violating international law is the first step towards a world filled with violence, chaos, and instability, where the law of the strongest prevails instead of multilateralism."
FRANCE
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated in a post from the US-based X account that Maduro has undermined the people's right to self-determination by "taking away the power of the Venezuelan people and depriving them of their fundamental freedoms." Noting that France has "consistently defended the sovereignty of the Venezuelan people," Barrot commented on the US intervention against Maduro, saying, "The military operation that led to the capture of Nicolas Maduro violates the principle of non-use of force, which is the foundation of international law. France reminds that a lasting political solution cannot be imposed from the outside and that sovereign peoples must decide their own futures."
Pointing to the US, Barrot stated, "The continuous violation of the principle of (non-use of force) by those who have a primary responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council will have serious consequences for global security that will not exclude anyone." Stating that "as a country that learns from history, France is preparing for this," Barrot emphasized, "France reaffirms its commitment to the UN Charter, which should always guide states in their international actions."
ISRAEL
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated in a statement from the US-based X company's social media platform that the US is acting "as the leader of the free world" under President Trump's leadership. Claiming that Israel "stands with the suffering Venezuelan people," Saar noted that they welcome the overthrow of Maduro and hope for the establishment of friendly relations between Israel and Venezuela. Israel had previously criticized the Maduro administration and expressed its pleasure at Maria Corina Machado, the leader of the Venezuelan opposition, winning the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. Machado's open support for Israel and her close relations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government have been on the international agenda.
UKRAINE
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha conveyed in a post on the US-based X company's social media platform that his country does not recognize the legitimacy of Nicolas Maduro's administration, sending a message that they are in favor of "developments that prioritize the interests of Venezuelans."
Sybiha noted that Ukraine has always defended the right of "nations to live free from dictatorship, oppression, and human rights violations," asserting that the Maduro administration has violated these principles in every aspect.
Emphasizing that his country does not see the Maduro administration as "legitimate," Sybiha stated, "The Venezuelan people must have a chance for a normal life, security, prosperity, and a life worthy of human dignity. We will continue to support their rights to this normal life, respect, and freedom."
EUROPEAN UNION
European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas stated that they are closely monitoring developments in Venezuela, emphasizing that "international law and the UN Charter must be respected under all circumstances." In a statement regarding the attacks on Venezuela from the US-based X company's social media platform, Kallas mentioned that they had a phone conversation with the EU ambassador in Caracas and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating, "The EU is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela."
Kallas reiterated, "The EU has repeatedly stated that Mr. (Venezuelan President Nicolas) Maduro lacks legitimacy and has advocated for a peaceful transition. International law and the UN Charter must be respected under all circumstances. We call on all parties to exercise restraint."
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
The leader of the second largest political group in the European Parliament (EP), the Socialists and Democrats (S&D), Iratxe Garcia-Perez, noted that the situation in Venezuela is extremely concerning.
"Democracy cannot be achieved through bombs or the use of force. It certainly cannot be built to serve the interests of (US President Donald) Trump. International law and the UN Charter must be respected," said Garcia-Perez, expressing that the Venezuelan people deserve a peaceful and democratic transition. Garcia-Perez stated that the EU should take the lead through dialogue and mediation. On the other hand, the S&D Group requested a plenary session in the EP regarding the EU's role in defending democracy and the rules-based international order in relation to the situation in Venezuela.
UNITED NATIONS
The UN Secretary-General's office noted that developments in Venezuela could have concerning consequences in the region. A statement was made by the UN Secretary-General's spokesperson regarding the recent developments in Venezuela. The statement said, "The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the escalation of tensions in Venezuela due to the US's military action today, which could have worrying consequences in the region." It was noted that Antonio Guterres once again emphasized the importance of adhering to international law and the UN Charter, stating, "The Secretary-General is concerned about the non-compliance with the rules of international law."
EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
Belgian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot emphasized that the safety of citizens in Venezuela is their top priority. Stating that they are closely monitoring the situation, Prevot reported that they are coordinating with European allies. EU Council President Antonio Costa stated, "I am following the situation in Venezuela with great concern. The European Union calls for the de-escalation of tensions and reaching a solution within the framework of full respect for international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations (UN) Charter."
Costa emphasized that the EU will continue to support a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive solution in Venezuela, noting their support for the efforts led by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, who is working in coordination with member states to ensure the safety of European citizens in the country. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that she is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela and reiterated her support for Kallas. Emphasizing that any solution must be based on respect for international law and the UN Charter, von der Leyen said, "We stand with the people of Venezuela and support a peaceful, democratic transition."
ENGLAND: WE ARE NOT INVOLVED IN THE OPERATION
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated in a statement regarding the US attack on Venezuela, "I can say that the UK is in no way involved in this operation." Noting that he has not spoken with Trump about the "rapidly evolving situation," Starmer said, "I want to talk to the President (Trump), I want to talk to our allies." Regarding Trump's statement about the capture of Venezuelan President Maduro, Starmer commented, "As I have always said and believed, we all must adhere to international law, but the situation is evolving very quickly at this stage. Let's establish the facts first and then act accordingly."
DENMARK
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen emphasized, "A dramatic development is taking place in Venezuela that we are closely monitoring. There needs to be a de-escalation of tensions and a return to dialogue. Respect for international law must be shown." Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also expressed that they are closely following developments and the situation of Italian citizens in the country, stating that Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is being continuously informed about the situation. The Slovenian Foreign Ministry, in a statement to the country's state radio and television, indicated that they are following the situation in Venezuela with great concern. The statement pointed out that Slovenia has called for a reduction of tensions and respect for international law, and reminded that Slovenia does not recognize the results of the recent elections in Venezuela.
SPAIN
Spain announced that it is ready to mediate to end the crisis between the two countries following the US military attack on Venezuela.
In a written statement from the Spanish Foreign Ministry, it was stated, "Spain calls for the reduction of tensions, the establishment of moderation, and always respecting international law and the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter. In this context, Spain is ready to mediate to find a peaceful and negotiated solution to the current crisis."
The statement noted that Spain does not recognize the results of the July 28, 2024 elections in Venezuela and has always supported efforts to achieve a democratic solution for Venezuela, stating, "Spain welcomes the tens of thousands of Venezuelans who have had to leave their country for political reasons, will continue to welcome them, and is ready to assist in the search for a democratic, negotiated, and peaceful solution for the country."
On the other hand, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also called for "the reduction of tensions, respect for international law, and the principles of the UN Charter" following the US military airstrike on Venezuela.
Sanchez stated in a post on the US-based social media platform X, "The Spanish government is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela. Our embassy and consulates remain open. We call on everyone to reduce tensions and act responsibly. Respect for international law and the principles of the UN Charter must be shown."
IRELAND
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Helen McEntee stated that in response to the rapidly evolving situation in Venezuela, she has been in contact with EU High Representative Kallas this morning, and she will continue to maintain close contact with her EU counterparts as the situation in the region develops.
Minister McEntee noted: Ireland emphasizes that full respect for international law and the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter is an absolute necessity together with our partners in the EU. While we are clear that President Maduro has no democratic legitimacy, we have consistently called for a peaceful and negotiated transition in Venezuela and supported all international efforts in this direction. McEntee reported that her ministry is monitoring the consular situation in coordination with EU partners on the ground.
NETHERLANDS
In the Netherlands, the Prime Minister of the interim government, Dick Schoof, stated that the country’s government is closely monitoring developments in the Caribbean region and the situation in Venezuela following the US operations against Maduro and attacks on Venezuela. Schoof shared on the American X company's social media platform, "Security in the region is of great importance for Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire."
Schoof shared that they are in close contact with the prime ministers of the countries that are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, stating, "I conveyed that they can count on our support during this uncertain period."
A written statement from the Dutch Foreign Ministry called on families and friends to share whether Dutch citizens in Venezuela are safe.
The statement advised Dutch citizens in need of assistance to contact travel organizations or the ministry, noting that a red travel warning has been in effect for the entire country since July 18.
David van Weel, the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs of the interim government, also stated, "The situation in Caracas is still unclear. We are closely monitoring developments and are in contact with our embassy in Venezuela, the Ministry of Defence, and the country’s authorities. Our priority is the safety of the Dutch citizens in Venezuela and the Kingdom of the Netherlands."
KOSOVO
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani also conveyed her support to US President Trump in a statement made on the social media platform of the US-based company X.
Osmani stated that her country understands the impact of the US's "determination" and conveyed that Trump stands with the people of Venezuela.
SWITZERLAND
The Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared a statement on the matter from its account on the US-based X platform.
The statement included, "(Switzerland calls for the reduction of tensions, restraint, and respect for international law between Venezuela and the US. In this context, the use of force must be prohibited, and the principle of respect for territorial integrity must be adhered to.)"
The statement indicated that the situation is being closely monitored by embassy personnel on the ground and noted that no Swiss citizens have been affected by the events so far.
CZECHIA
Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka stated in a written statement that they are closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela.
Macinka said, "The US has repeatedly warned that tensions could escalate due to the actions of Maduro's illegitimate regime through President Trump. We believe it is important to calm the situation and initiate diplomatic negotiations with the participation of the Venezuelan opposition."
AUSTRIA
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger stated in a statement from her account on X that it is necessary to prevent the escalation of tensions and to uphold international law, calling on all parties to show restraint.
Meinl-Reisinger noted that Austria will continue to work with its EU partners for a peaceful and democratic solution in Venezuela based on the UN Charter.
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