EU leaders condemn US military strikes on Venezuela, urge de‑escalation

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM: Donald Trump took to social media to announce the success of a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its president, Nicolas Maduro, on Saturday, January 3.

He wrote that both Maduro and his wife had been captured and flown out of the country, as he further revealed that the operation was a collaborative effort with the US law enforcement.

In light of the recent attack and Trump’s revelation, several European leaders condemned the strike, including the President of the European Council Antonio Costa, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and several others. 

European Union calls for 'de-escalation' after Venezuela strikes

The President of the European Council Antonio Costa took to X to urge members of the council to ensure the safety of European citizens.

He wrote that he was following the situation with “great concern” and revealed that the European Union was calling for a “de-escalation and a resolution” in respect of international law.

He also stated the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the reasons for de-escalation while extending support to Venezuela.

“The European Union will continue to support a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive solution in Venezuela,” he wrote. 

He also praised the collaborative efforts of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, for working with member states to safeguard European citizens in Venezuela. 

Ursula von der Leyen also condemned the strikes, noting that the European Commission stood by the people of Venezuela and wanted to “support a peaceful and democratic transition.” 

She urged that any solution must respect international law and the UN Charter.

The foreign ministry of Switzerland echoed the above-mentioned thoughts and called for “restraint” and respect for international law, including the prohibition of  “force” and “respect for territorial integrity.”

Kosovo stands by Trump’s decision to strike Venezuela 

Vjosa Osmani, the president of Kosovo, stated on X that the country “firmly stood by America and Donald Trump’s actions against Venezuela’s “n***o t***or regime.” She explained that Trump stood with the Venezuelan people and against Maduro’s “n***o-state.”

She added that the American president was protecting Americans and the rest of the world from “cartels and organized crimes.” She further praised Trump, noting that the decision portrayed “strength” and leadership.

Osmani criticized Maduro’s leadership, stating that the Venezuelan people deserved freedom and democracy. She stated that they deserved a future governed by law, and “not fear.”