Global Reactions to the U.S. Military Strike on Venezuela

On January 3, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a large-scale military strike against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Trump characterized the operation as a necessary action against Maduro's alleged ties to drug cartels, which he claimed justified U.S. intervention. The strike involved over 150 U.S. aircraft and was executed in conjunction with elite special forces. Trump stated that the U.S. would "run" Venezuela until a political transition could occur, emphasizing the need for a safe and judicious change in leadership.

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Political leaders from Albania and Kosovo expressed strong support for the U.S. action. Albania’s Foreign Minister Elisa Spiropali stated that her country "unequivocally stands with the United States," while Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of U.S. leadership in confronting authoritarianism.

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Conversely, several nations condemned the U.S. military intervention. Venezuelan officials labeled the strikes as "extremely serious military aggression," with Maduro's government calling for international condemnation. Colombian President Gustavo Petro emphasized the need for peace and respect for international law, while Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel referred to the U.S. actions as "state terrorism." Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum also condemned the military intervention, citing violations of the UN Charter.

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The European Union, through High Representative Kaja Kallas, called for restraint and respect for international law, reiterating that Maduro lacks legitimacy. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm over the situation, warning that the U.S. actions set a dangerous precedent.

UN expresses deep alarm over developments Unfolding in Venezuela

Turkey's Foreign Ministry urged calm and restraint, emphasizing the importance of Venezuela's stability. Greece's Foreign Ministry stated it was closely monitoring the situation, while the Greek Communist Party organized a rally against what it termed "U.S. imperialist intervention."

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Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern, advocating for dialogue and adherence to international law. The ministry reaffirmed Qatar's readiness to support any international efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution.

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While the U.S. claims to have neutralized Maduro's military capabilities, reports from Venezuela indicate that the strikes may have impacted residential areas, raising concerns about civilian casualties. The extent of damage to Venezuela's oil infrastructure remains unclear, with some sources suggesting that key facilities remain operational despite the military action.

Venezuela accuses US of bombing residential areas

The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, with ongoing international discussions about the implications of U.S. intervention. The future governance of Venezuela and the potential for a political transition are uncertain, as both domestic and international stakeholders navigate the aftermath of the military strike.

UN expresses deep alarm over developments Unfolding in Venezuela