Keir Starmer expressed his lack of sympathy for the Maduro regime’s collapse in Venezuela, emphasizing the UK’s support for a transition of power in the country. He highlighted the UK’s stance on Maduro’s presidency as illegitimate and stressed the importance of adhering to international law.
Regarding the evolving situation in Venezuela, Starmer mentioned plans for discussions with US officials, including Donald Trump, to facilitate a peaceful transition to a government reflecting the will of the Venezuelan people.
In a press conference, President Trump announced intentions for members of his cabinet to oversee Venezuela temporarily, utilizing the country’s oil reserves for trade. He outlined a strategy for US involvement in governing Venezuela, mentioning cooperation from Vice President Delcy Rodriguez.
The legality of the US intervention in Venezuela raised questions, with the White House not seeking congressional approval for the operation. Justifications were quickly put forward by Trump’s administration, with Senator Marco Rubio asserting the necessity of the actions taken.
Trump praised the operation’s success, emphasizing its impact on preventing drug trafficking into the US. He vowed to manage Venezuela until a transition of power could occur, underscoring the operation’s warning to those threatening American interests.
While Starmer clarified that UK forces were not involved in the assault, Nigel Farage justified Trump’s actions as a deterrent to hostile nations like China and Russia. Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, criticized the attack, cautioning against unlawful military interventions and their potential repercussions.
The United Nations expressed deep concern over the US strikes in Venezuela, citing violations of international law and calling for respect for human rights and the rule of law in the region.