The world reacted strongly to the U.S. military strikes on Venezuela on January 3, 2026, with nations and organizations voicing concern, condemnation, and calls for restraint.
Russia condemned the attack as “armed aggression,” urging de-escalation and resolution through dialogue. Moscow emphasized that Latin America must remain a zone of peace and supported Venezuela’s call for an urgent UN Security Council meeting.
The European Union stressed respect for international law and the UN Charter, with High Representative Kaja Kallas calling for restraint and monitoring the situation closely.
Chile’s President Gabriel Boric expressed concern over the U.S. action, reaffirming commitment to non-intervention and peaceful dispute resolution. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro also criticized unilateral military action, warning of risks to civilians and regional stability.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned U.S. actions, calling for firm resistance and divine support against foreign aggression. Spain urged moderation and offered its good offices to facilitate a peaceful solution, while Trinidad and Tobago confirmed it was not participating in the military operations and stressed peaceful relations with Venezuela.
Several European voices weighed in: Germany’s MP Roderich Kiesewetter criticized the U.S. for abandoning a rules-based order, while UK’s Nigel Farage described the actions as unorthodox but potentially strategic against China and Russia. Former Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte denounced the strikes as a violation of international law, emphasizing the danger of selective rule enforcement.
Legal experts, including Marc Weller from Chatham House, highlighted that international law prohibits the use of force without a UN mandate or imminent threat, arguing that the U.S. operation lacked legal justification.
Indonesia called for peaceful resolution and civilian protection, while Belarus condemned the attack as a threat to international peace and reaffirmed support for Venezuela’s sovereignty. Lebanese group Hezbollah also condemned the U.S. actions, expressing solidarity with Venezuela’s government and people.
Across the globe, the U.S. strikes on Venezuela have elicited widespread criticism, with most voices emphasizing restraint, adherence to international law, and the urgent need for dialogue to prevent further escalation.
