Global Leftist Leaders Condemn U.S. Attack on Venezuela

The United States conducted a large-scale military operation in Venezuela on January 3, 2026, resulting in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, which included airstrikes in and around Caracas, led to Maduro being flown out of the country and taken to a U.S. military base in New York. President Donald Trump stated the U.S. will now 'run' Venezuela until a 'safe' transition of power occurs.

The operation has drawn immediate international responses. U.S. allies and partners have expressed a mix of concern, condemnation, and support. Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called the action an 'unacceptable line' crossed by the U.S. and a dangerous precedent for international law. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council and condemned the 'aggression against Venezuela’s sovereignty'.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing 'deep concern and condemnation' for the U.S. military action, aligning with other leftist leaders in the region who have criticized the move. Mexico, Cuba, and other Latin American nations joined Brazil and Russia in rejecting the U.S. intervention.

Why Did This Happen?

President Trump described the operation as a response to Maduro’s alleged drug trafficking and narco-terrorism activities. The U.S. Attorney General confirmed that Maduro and his wife have been indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges of drug trafficking and conspiracy. Trump stated the U.S. will ensure that the transition of power in Venezuela is conducted in a manner that benefits the people of the country.

According to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the operation was not a repeat of past U.S. interventions like the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He emphasized that the operation was 'well orchestrated' and aimed at achieving a strategic and economic benefit for the U.S. without incurring significant casualties.

How Did Markets Respond?

Oil markets reacted cautiously to the news of the U.S. operation in Venezuela. While prices remained near $60 per barrel, analysts noted the potential for volatility as the situation develops. Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest oil reserves, and any disruption to production or exports could affect global supply chains according to analysts.

Investors and economists weighed in on the implications for energy markets. Jamie Cox of Harris Financial Group suggested that the operation could lead to increased investment in U.S. oil companies as they seek to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure. Helima Croft of RBC Capital Markets, however, warned that the long-term success of such efforts is uncertain given the historical challenges of U.S. nation-building and regime change according to market analysts.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

The U.S. has not yet provided a detailed plan for its transition strategy in Venezuela. While Trump mentioned that the U.S. will manage the country until a 'safe' transition, he did not specify how governance will be structured or what role the international community will play. This lack of clarity raises concerns about the stability of the region and the potential for further conflict.

Analysts are also monitoring the response from OPEC+ as the group meets to discuss global oil production. Venezuela is a key member of the organization, and its sudden change in leadership could impact future output decisions and market dynamics according to market analysts.

Brazil and other regional governments are closely following developments. The closure of Venezuela’s border with Brazil has raised concerns about the impact on refugee flows and humanitarian assistance. There have been no reports of a sudden surge in migrants, but the situation remains fluid according to regional reports.

The U.S. and its allies will likely face continued pushback from left-leaning governments in Latin America and beyond. The operation has already drawn comparisons to past U.S. interventions in Panama and elsewhere, with critics warning of a new era of U.S. military assertiveness in the region according to regional observers.