As world leaders divided themselves into two clear camps, either opposing or supporting the U.S. attacks on Caracas and its capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the government played a cautious line.
U.S. strikes Venezuela: Follow LIVE updates on January 4, 2026
In its statement issued on Sunday (January 4, 2026), calling the evolving situation in the South American country a matter of “deep concern”, the Ministry of External Affairs did not refer to the United States or to the U.S. forces attacking the Venezuelan capital and taking Mr. Maduro captive, nor did it refer to UN principles.
Russia, China, Brazil, South Africa, and others in the Global south condemned the U.S. action as a violation of international law. On the other hand, the U.S.’s main allies in Europe, including Germany and France, supported the move, calling for a peaceful transition to a new “legitimate” leadership. Both China and Russia have also demanded that the U.S. release Mr. Maduro and, along with Colombia, have requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Monday (January 5, 2026).
How the U.S. military buildup and strikes led to Maduro’s capture: Timeline
