Ask Onix
UK Government Responds to US Military Action in Venezuela
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has reminded US officials of their obligations under international law following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by American forces over the weekend. The operation has sparked global debate over its legality and potential consequences for international norms.
Cooper Addresses Parliament on Venezuela Crisis
In a statement to the House of Commons, Cooper confirmed she had discussed the matter with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizing the need to comply with international law. She stated, "In my discussions with Secretary Rubio, I raised the importance of complying with international law, and we will continue to urge all partners to do so."
Cooper added that the UK would support a peaceful democratic transition in Venezuela, respecting the will of its people. However, she stopped short of condemning the US action outright, instead calling for clarity on its legal basis.
Political Divisions Emerge in UK Response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has avoided direct criticism of the US, focusing instead on the brutality of Maduro's regime. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the government's silence, arguing the UK should engage more closely with its "closest security partner." She acknowledged concerns over the precedent set by the operation but stressed the need to work with the US.
Labour MP Emily Thornberry, chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, urged the government to "be clearer that this has been a breach of international law," warning of risks to global stability. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called the UK's reluctance to condemn the action "ridiculous," while Labour backbencher Richard Burgon accused the government of "appeasing Donald Trump."
Maduro Denounces "Kidnapping" in Court Appearance
Wearing leg shackles, Maduro appeared in a New York courtroom on Monday, telling reporters he had been "kidnapped." His wife, Cilia Flores, accompanied him. The US has justified the operation on grounds of national security, citing Maduro's alleged ties to drug trafficking and terrorism.
Security experts have warned the move could embolden other leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, to disregard international agreements. The UN Security Council is set to discuss Venezuela later today.
UK Reaffirms Stance on Greenland Amid US Speculation
Cooper also addressed renewed US interest in Greenland, stating the island's future "is a matter for the Greenlanders and Danes, and no-one else." Former US President Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested the US could annex the Danish territory, drawing sharp rebuke from Greenlandic and Danish leaders.
Former UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned that US attempts to seize Greenland could destabilize NATO, calling it a "disaster." Cooper assured MPs the government was "very firm" on the issue.
Global Reactions and Next Steps
The UK government faces mounting pressure to clarify its position on the Venezuela operation. While Cooper has emphasized diplomatic engagement, opposition parties demand stronger condemnation. The UN Security Council's discussion later today may provide further clarity on the legal and geopolitical implications.
