UK Says It Played No Part In US Raid On Maduro
Benzinga·2026-01-03 20:46

Core Viewpoint - The UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that Britain did not participate in the U.S. military operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, emphasizing the need for verified details before making formal judgments [1][2]. Group 1: UK Government Response - Starmer stated that British forces were not involved in the U.S.-led operation and prioritized the safety of approximately 500 British nationals remaining in Venezuela [2]. - The UK government is monitoring security conditions and providing guidance to embassy staff in Venezuela [2]. Group 2: U.S. Military Operation - U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that U.S. forces executed a special military mission to remove Maduro and his wife, with Delta Force units leading the operation [3]. - U.S. officials accused Maduro of drug trafficking and illegal weapons activities, asserting that his leadership lacks democratic legitimacy [3][4]. Group 3: Political Reactions - British politicians expressed differing views on the U.S. military action, with Conservative spokesperson Dame Priti Patel welcoming Maduro's removal, while Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey criticized the operation for undermining global legal standards [5]. - Nigel Farage suggested that the strike could deter future aggression from countries like China and Russia, viewing it as a strong signal of deterrence [5]. Group 4: International Response - The European Union's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called for respect for international law, acknowledging Maduro's lack of legitimacy but rejecting violent solutions [6]. - The EU is closely monitoring the safety of its citizens in Venezuela and advocates for a peaceful political transition [6].

UK Says It Played No Part In US Raid On Maduro - Reportify