U.S. allies and foes fear Maduro's capture sets precedent for more American intervention
Source: NBC News
Jan. 4, 2026, 8:46 AM EST / Updated Jan. 4, 2026, 9:30 AM EST
By capturing Venezuela’s president, Washington sent shockwaves felt far beyond Caracas. The United States stunned the world on Saturday by launching military strikes in Venezuela and seizing President Nicolás Maduro, swiftly ending his 13-year rule in an operation the Trump administration framed as a demonstration of American power, as President Donald Trump boasted that the U.S. possessed “capabilities and skills our enemies can scarcely imagine.”
America’s adversaries heard him loudest. ussia and China swiftly condemned the strikes and called for the release of Maduro, who has been brought to the U.S. to face criminal charges. Iran and Cuba denounced what they called a violation of international law, their objections carrying an edge of unease that they, too, could find themselves in Washington’s sights.
Even major European allies, more cautious and measured in tone, carefully signaled concern about the operation’s legality while largely aligning with the U.S. on policy.
Taken together, these responses suggest the revival of old fears of American interventionism, prompting allies and adversaries alike to ponder where Washington might act next.
Read more: https://www.nbcnews.com/world/venezuela/us-allies-foes-fear-maduros-capture-sets-precedent-rcna252141
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