Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has condemned the United States military operation in Venezuela despite his government never having recognized Nicolás Maduro’s regime, stating that neither will Spain recognize an intervention that violates international law. The nuanced response highlights the complexity of international reactions to Saturday’s strikes and capture of the Venezuelan president.
Sánchez called on all actors to consider the civilian population, respect the UN Charter, and work toward a fair and dialogue-based transition. Spain’s Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz issued even stronger criticism, describing the action as an imperialist attack that makes the world “less safe and less free” since Trump and what she termed the “international hate movement” began acting with impunity.
The captured Venezuelan leader and his wife are being transported to New York to face drug trafficking charges, according to US Attorney General Pam Bondi. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the charges relate to narcotics operations, while President Trump stated the couple is currently aboard a ship bound for the United States.
The international response has been characterized by widespread condemnation from major powers and international organizations. UN Secretary General António Guterres warned of dangerous precedents, while China and Russia issued particularly strong denunciations calling for respect of sovereignty and the immediate release of the detained leaders.
Latin American reactions have split along political lines, with conservative governments offering support or remaining silent while leftist administrations joined in criticism. Colombia has taken practical steps to mobilize its military amid concerns about refugee flows, and experts debate whether external military intervention can successfully transform Venezuela’s political system or will merely perpetuate cycles of instability and authoritarian governance.