U.S. Military Operations in Venezuela Stir Concerns Globally

On Saturday, January 3, 2026, jubilation was seen among Venezuelans following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's capture and removal, taking place in Santiago, Chile.

The ramifications of what is perceived as a significant military intervention by the U.S. in Latin America—the boldest one since Panama's invasion in 1989—are beginning to ripple beyond Venezuela. In Colombia, the government has deployed additional security forces to the border regions in anticipation of a potential influx of refugees, given Colombia's large Venezuelan expatriate community.

Several bombings occurred in Caracas, targeting key locations such as a military airbase and crucial governmental structures. Colombian authorities expressed dismay over these attacks, labeling them as aggressive acts against the Venezuelan nation and the broader Latin American region while advocating for a reduction in hostilities.

The Brazilian government has voiced strong opposition to the U.S.'s aggressive actions and the detention of Maduro, viewing these measures as breaking crucial international boundaries and establishing perilous precedents. President Lula noted the parallel to historical instances of foreign intervention in Latin America that compromised regional peace.

In the broader region, countries like Chile and Mexico have also expressed stern criticism. Mexican officials condemned the strikes as breaches of the United Nations Charter, calling for an immediate end to such hostilities. During a Fox News appearance, President Trump criticized Mexico's governance, suggesting action might be warranted against them.

Responses from International Allies

Countries close to Venezuela, such as Cuba and Nicaragua, are keeping a watchful eye on the situation. Cuban leaders have described the U.S.'s actions as 'state terrorism', urging prompt international measures. Cuba, struggling with significant economic challenges tied to Venezuelan oil, faces threats of worsened conditions if disruptions continue.

Other major international players have also reacted. Russia has censured the military intervention, expressing solidarity with Venezuelans and criticizing the U.S. for what it views as an unfounded pretext for military aggression. While backing Venezuela diplomatically, Russia has avoided direct confrontation with the United States, balancing its response amidst ongoing U.S. pressure on Venezuela.

China has similarly condemned the U.S. military actions, labeling them overt violations of international law. Chinese officials articulated shock and critiqued the U.S. for compromising Venezuelan sovereignty and destabilizing peace across the Latin American and Caribbean regions.

European Reactions and Global Legal Concerns

The European Union, through its Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has expressed support for a peaceful transition in Venezuela, emphasizing adherence to international law and U.N. principles, although she refrained from condemning the U.S. action specifically.

Venezuelan leaders have requested an emergency session of the U.N. Security Council, prompting discussions about the legality of U.S. operations. The U.N. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, shared his deep concern, highlighting the apparent disregard for international legal norms in these recent developments.