Following the U.S. military operation capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, global leaders have issued sharp reactions ranging from celebrations to condemnations of sovereignty violations. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has assumed temporary command, demanding proof of life amid ongoing tensions.
U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of Maduro's capture for narcotrafficking trial has intensified scrutiny. The Venezuelan government, under interim leader Delcy Rodríguez—a lawyer, sister of National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez, and long-time Chavista figure who served as Foreign Minister and Vice President since 2018—demanded 'immediate proof of life' and activated defense plans. Reports placed Rodríguez in Russia during the strikes, though Russian officials denied it.
Reactions vary widely: Colombia's President Gustavo Petro voiced 'deep concern' over explosions and urged OEA and UN meetings; Argentina's Javier Milei celebrated with 'Long live freedom, damn it'; Cuba's Miguel Díaz-Canel decried a 'criminal attack'; the EU's Kaja Kallas called for moderation and respect for international law; Russia condemned 'armed aggression' and pushed dialogue; Mexico and Brazil rejected UN Charter violations, stressing Latin America's peace zone.
In Chile, U.S. Ambassador Brandon Judd stated the intervention is unique to Venezuela, citing exhausted diplomacy, and predicted benefits for regional security and migration.