Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a measured statement following a dramatic military intervention by the United States in Venezuela, an event that has sent shockwaves through the international community and sparked fears of a wider global conflict.
UK Backs Transition as US Takes Control
The crisis unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, 4 January 2026, when US forces launched strikes on the oil-rich South American nation. President Donald Trump announced that Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been captured, flown out of Caracas, and indicted on "narco-terrorism" charges. Trump stated America would "run" Venezuela until a "safe, proper and judicious transition" of power could be secured.
In response, Sir Keir Starmer confirmed the UK's longstanding position, stating his administration would "shed no tears" over the end of Maduro's regime, which Britain regarded as illegitimate. The Prime Minister emphasised support for a transition that reflects "the will of the Venezuelan people" and said the UK government would discuss the "evolving situation" with American counterparts in the coming days.
International Law and Global Repercussions
Starmer, who had not spoken to President Trump by Saturday morning, was cautious in his initial remarks. He refused to be drawn on whether the unilateral military action breached international law, telling broadcasters: "As you know, I always say and believe we should all uphold international law, but I think at this stage, fast-moving situation, let’s establish the facts and take it from there."
The sudden operation has triggered profound concern among world leaders about potential escalation. Analysts warn it could embolden other powers, notably China regarding Taiwan and influence Russia's strategy in Ukraine. The Prime Minister faces calls from Labour backbenchers and opposition politicians to condemn the US action more forcefully.
On-the-Ground Realities and Trump's Intentions
The UK government confirmed that work is ongoing to safeguard the estimated 500 British nationals currently in Venezuela, with the Foreign Office advising against all travel to the country.
Later on Saturday, President Trump revealed plans to exploit the leadership vacuum, aiming to "fix" Venezuela's oil infrastructure and sell "large amounts" of fuel globally. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he shared an image purportedly showing the captured Maduro blindfolded aboard the US warship Iwo Jima and headed to New York, where he and his wife would "face the full might of American justice."
This bold move marks a significant escalation in Washington's months-long pressure campaign on Caracas and leaves the international community grappling with its unpredictable consequences for global stability.
