World leaders are reacting to the recent actions of the United States in Venezuela, where a military operation began on the night of January 3. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, who were taken to the U.S. to face charges of "narcoterrorism."
Many countries have expressed their concern regarding this operation, condemning Washington's actions. Leaders of European states have called for de-escalation and adherence to international norms.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that the EU is closely monitoring the developments in Venezuela, emphasizing support for the people of that country and the need for a peaceful transition. She added that any decision must comply with international law and the UN Charter.
In his address, European Council President António Costa also called for de-escalation and resolution of the situation in accordance with international standards and UN principles, reaffirming support for a peaceful and inclusive solution.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed "deep concern" regarding the escalation of the conflict, noting that U.S. actions could have serious consequences for the entire region. He emphasized that such events create a dangerous precedent and called for respect for international law.
Following the start of the military operation, the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry demanded an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Foreign Minister Ivan Gil Pinto described it as "criminal aggression" by the U.S.
Russia and China sharply condemned U.S. actions. The Russian Foreign Ministry characterized the operation as an "act of armed aggression," calling for de-escalation and dialogue. In China, there was also a protest against the use of force, emphasizing that it violates international law and Venezuela's sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the movement of troops to the border with Venezuela following the start of U.S. attacks, calling Washington's actions an "infringement on the sovereignty" of Latin America. He also warned of a potential humanitarian crisis.
Cuba, for its part, condemned U.S. actions and called on the international community to respond swiftly to the "criminal attack." Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel characterized it as "state terrorism."
Some American legislators from the Democratic Party sharply criticized Trump's actions. Senator Andy Kim reminded of the statements made by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense, asserting that their words do not reflect reality. He stated that the operation endangers Americans and represents an unreasonable foreign policy.
Other senators, such as Rubén Gallego and Jim McGovern, also expressed dissatisfaction with the actions of the Trump administration, calling them illegal and unjustified.
Source: Deutsche Welle
