World Reacts to Reported U.S. Strikes on Venezuela and Capture of President Maduro
Reports of U.S. military strikes in Venezuela early on January 3, 2026, and announcements claiming the capture of President Nicolás Maduro have sparked widespread international reaction, with nations and leaders expressing concern, condemnation, and calls for peace and diplomatic resolution.
Quick Insight:
The alleged operation represents a dramatic escalation in tensions between the United States and Venezuela, drawing sharp responses from governments across the Americas, the Middle East, and beyond — each framing the events within concerns for sovereignty, stability, and international law.
Venezuela’s Government Response
• Venezuelan authorities condemned what they described as a serious military aggression and declared a state of emergency across the country.
• President Nicolás Maduro’s government rejected the strikes, calling on citizens to mobilise and defend the nation against perceived external intervention.
• Leaders emphasised national sovereignty and called for unity amid reports of explosions and low-flying aircraft in the capital, Caracas.
Regional Reactions — Latin America
• Colombia’s president raised the alarm over bombings in Caracas and urged urgent meetings of the United Nations and the Organization of American States to address the situation.
• Colombian officials emphasised adherence to international law and regional peace, expressing deep concern over unilateral military action.
• Calls were made for de-escalation and humanitarian preparedness in case of increased tension and population displacement.
Caribbean and Latin American Allies
• Cuban leadership fiercely denounced the strikes, labelling the U.S. operation a “criminal attack” and “state terrorism” against Venezuela and the broader region.
• Cuban statements demanded an urgent international response and reinforced solidarity with Venezuela’s government and people.
• Shared language of defending sovereignty and regional cooperation underscored these condemnations.
Responses from Outside the Region
• Iran’s foreign ministry strongly condemned the U.S. military action, citing a violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Russia criticised the reported strikes as a breach of international law and called for restraint to avoid further escalation.
• Some European nations signalled concern and emphasised monitoring of the situation, underscoring the need to uphold international norms and avoid conflict spread.
Final Thoughts
The emerging crisis following alleged U.S. strikes on Venezuela and the claimed capture of its president has triggered a flurry of global reactions. From sharp condemnations to urgent calls for multilateral dialogue, the international community’s responses highlight deep concerns over sovereignty, regional stability, and the risks of an expanding conflict. The coming days are likely to be pivotal as diplomatic efforts, humanitarian considerations, and security responses unfold.
