Caracas: World leaders have reacted with alarm to the United States’ latest move against Venezuela, reviving memories of past US interventions in Iraq, Afghanistan and Latin America. Several countries have formally protested, warning that the action risks violating international law and further destabilising the region.
While many Venezuelans continue to demand political change at home, public opinion remains divided over foreign military involvement. Recent polling suggests that about 54% of Venezuelans oppose external military intervention, while roughly 35% support it.
International reaction
A group of Latin American countries and Spain have jointly warned against the US action, urging respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty. Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay and Spain issued a statement rejecting any attempt by outside powers to remove Venezuela’s leadership, stressing that intervention to control another country’s resources is a matter of serious concern.
Russia and China have also criticised Washington, and the UN Security Council is due to meet to discuss the situation. Several Western governments, while critical of President Nicolás Maduro, have reiterated their commitment to international law and questioned the legality of forcibly detaining a sitting head of state.
US position
US Attorney General Pam Bondi described the operation as a “law enforcement mission,” stating that President Maduro faces charges in the United States, including alleged narco-terrorism conspiracy. Washington has long accused the Venezuelan leader of links to drug trafficking networks, claims consistently denied by the Maduro government.
Energy markets steady
Despite Venezuela’s role as a major oil producer, OPEC+ announced that it would maintain current oil production levels. Eight member countries — Saudi Arabia, Russia, the UAE, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Iraq, Algeria and Oman — made the decision during a brief online meeting, noting that Venezuela was not discussed. The group is scheduled to meet again on February 1.
Political developments in Caracas
In Caracas, Venezuela’s Supreme Court has appointed Vice President and Oil Minister Delcy Rodríguez as interim president. Rodríguez said the government remains united behind Nicolás Maduro and called for calm amid uncertainty following his detention by US authorities.
Rodríguez is widely regarded as one of the most pragmatic figures within the current administration, given her experience in the energy sector and engagement with the private sector. She rejected US claims that Venezuelan officials would cooperate with Washington.
US President Donald Trump reportedly warned that Rodríguez could face “serious consequences” if the situation escalates, according to US media reports.
Detention of Maduro
President Maduro, 69, has been transferred to a detention facility in New York, where he is expected to face trial on drug-related charges. His wife, Cilia Flores, has also reportedly been detained. Images circulated on social media showing Maduro blindfolded and handcuffed have caused shock and anger among supporters in Venezuela.
Observers describe the operation as Washington’s most controversial intervention in Latin America since the US invasion of Panama in 1989.
Military response
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said in an audio message released by the ruling PSUV party that Venezuela recognises only one president, Nicolás Maduro Moros, and warned citizens against responding to what he described as provocation.
Defence Minister General Vladimir Padrino López said the US action had disrupted security forces and civilians alike, adding that Venezuela’s armed forces had been fully activated to safeguard national sovereignty.
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