Latin America splits over US military action in Venezuela

A deep schism has emerged across Latin America following confirmed US military operations in Venezuela, which reportedly led to the capture of the country's leader, Nicolás Maduro. The dramatic escalation, described by former US President Donald Trump as "large scale," has prompted starkly contrasting reactions from regional capitals, highlighting pre-existing geopolitical fault lines.

Regional Condemnation and Calls for Diplomacy

A significant bloc of nations vehemently criticized the unilateral military action. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel denounced it as "state terrorism," with his foreign minister condemning the "cowardly acts." Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected any action risking civilian safety, mobilizing forces along the shared border. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called the bombings and capture an "unacceptable" affront to sovereignty and a "dangerous precedent," urging a robust UN response. Chile and Mexico similarly condemned the strikes as violations of international law, with Mexico offering to facilitate dialogue.

Support from US-Aligned Governments

Conversely, several governments signaled approval of the operation. Argentina's President Javier Milei celebrated the news of Maduro's capture with a social media post proclaiming "Freedom advances!" Paraguay's government, which had previously labeled Maduro's administration a regional threat, stated it was monitoring the situation and called for a transition. Panama expressed support for "the democratic process," recognizing opposition figure Edmundo González as the legitimate leader from the 2024 elections. Peru also called the Maduro government "illegitimate," linking it to regional migration crises.

Operation Details and Legal Charges

The Venezuelan government stated that attacks targeted civilian and military sites, prompting a national emergency. Trump confirmed the operation on his Truth Social platform, stating Maduro and his wife were captured and flown out. US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the couple faces indictment in New York on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and weapons violations, stating they "will soon face the full wrath of American justice." The operation marks a unprecedented direct military intervention in the hemisphere, setting a complex new stage for regional politics and international law.