United States military forces have reportedly arrested Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. His wife, Cilia Flores, was also taken. This happened after a large military operation. The US says they will help Venezuela transition to a stable government. This action has caused strong reactions worldwide.
The operation happened early in the morning. President Maduro and his wife were brought to the United States. They face drug charges in New York. US officials said they acted because of alleged illegal activities. They want to help Venezuela have a "safe, proper and judicious transition." However, many countries that support the Venezuelan government strongly oppose this.
China strongly condemned the use of force. They called it a violation of international rules. Russia also said it was an act of armed aggression. Iran said it was an infringement on Venezuela's sovereignty. These reactions show a growing disagreement between countries.
Neighboring Latin American countries are also concerned. Brazil's President warned that such actions could lead to global chaos. Colombia's President called it an attack on sovereignty. Cuba's President described it as a criminal attack. These statements show worries about more instability in the region.
The United Kingdom has a different view. Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested his government would not miss the Maduro administration. This shows a disagreement in how countries see the situation.
Some Venezuelans living in the UK felt relief. Cinzia de Santis said, "My first reaction was he’s gone." She felt liberation because the regime was built on fear. However, she also worried about the methods used. The future of Venezuela and its international relations is uncertain.