The United Kingdom on Sunday called for a safe and peaceful transition of power in Venezuela following a United States operation ordered by President Donald Trump that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK has long opposed Maduro’s rule and is awaiting complete details of the US military action.
In a statement issued from 10 Downing Street, Starmer said Britain has consistently viewed Maduro as an illegitimate leader and reiterated the country’s commitment to international law.
He said the UK government would engage with US counterparts in the coming days to assess the evolving situation and work towards a transition that reflects the will of the Venezuelan people.
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Starmer said the UK has supported a transfer of power in Venezuela for years and expressed no regret over the end of Maduro’s regime. He added that the priority now is to ensure a lawful and peaceful process that avoids further instability or violence.
Speaking to the BBC on Saturday night, the prime minister said the British government is still gathering facts and consulting allies before forming a final view on the legality and consequences of the US action. He said he intends to speak directly with President Trump and international partners, while stressing his long standing commitment to compliance with international law.
Starmer also confirmed that the British embassy in Caracas is actively working to support UK nationals in Venezuela. Following the developments, the UK Foreign Office advised against all travel to Venezuela and urged British citizens currently in the country to remain sheltered and be prepared to change plans if required.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the UK has consistently rejected Maduro’s legitimacy and remains focused on achieving a democratic transition without bloodshed. She confirmed that travel advisories have been updated and emphasised that any future government in Venezuela must respect democratic principles and the rights of its citizens.
Meanwhile, President Trump said during a media briefing at his Mar a Lago residence that the United States would effectively oversee Venezuela until a safe and orderly transition is achieved. Earlier, he stated that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were flown out of Caracas during a joint military operation involving US law enforcement agencies.
India also reacted to the situation, expressing deep concern over the developments. The Ministry of External Affairs said the Indian Embassy in Caracas is in touch with members of the Indian community in Venezuela and is providing all possible assistance amid the rapidly changing circumstances.
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