Overview:
This article examines Latin American reactions to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, highlighting deep divisions among governments in the region. While some leaders praised the U.S. operation as a step toward democracy and accountability, others condemned it as a violation of sovereignty and international law. The piece provides a country-by-country breakdown of responses, contextualizes the debate with expert insight, and underscores the ongoing tensions over democracy, security, and legal norms in Latin America.
Editor’s Disclaimer: This article reports on developments surrounding the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the reactions of Latin American leaders, based on statements from governments, international organizations, and media sources available at the time of publication. Due to ongoing political tensions and limited independent verification on the ground, some details may evolve as new information emerges. The article aims to provide a factual overview and does not represent an endorsementof any political position or action.
Latin American reactions to Maduro’s capture highlight how governments across the region are sharply divided over the recent U.S. operation in Venezuela and the detention of President Nicolás Maduro. Reactions range from support to strong criticism, revealing deep differences in how countries view sovereignty, democracy, and security.
Argentina
According to reports, Argentine President Javier Milei praised the capture of Nicolás Maduro as a blow against authoritarianism and a win for freedom. As a result, this position shows support for the U.S. operation.
Source: Reuters
Bolivia
Meanwhile, Bolivia’s government criticized the military action and stressed the need for peace, democracy, and respect for national independence.
Source: Al Jazeera
Brazil
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also spoke out against the U.S. strikes, saying they “went too far” and could set a dangerous example. Source: Reuters
Chile
In Chile, outgoing President Gabriel Boric condemned the U.S. action and called for peaceful solutions. On the other hand, incoming President José Antonio Kast welcomed Maduro’s capture as a positive step for accountability.
Source: Al Jazeera
Colombia
Similarly, President Gustavo Petro criticized the U.S. strikes and called for emergency sessions of the United Nations and the Organization of American States. He also warned about the risk of a refugee crisis.
Source: WFAE
Costa Rica
The government of Costa Rica was careful in its response. It stressed the need for peace while keeping a close eye on events without taking sides. Source: WFAE
Ecuador
In contrast, President Daniel Noboa supported Maduro’s capture. He said it was a blow to narco-Chavista structures and could help bring democratic reforms.
Source: Reuters
El Salvador
Likewise, President Nayib Bukele publicly supported the U.S. operation and has strengthened cooperation with Washington.
Source: WFAE
Guatemala
At the same time, Guatemala condemned the U.S. military action. The country emphasized respect for sovereignty and peaceful multilateral solutions.
Source: Reuters
Honduras
Xiomara Castro, the president who is leaving, also said that the U.S. intervention was a violation of sovereignty. Source: WFAE
Mexico
In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the strikes and highlighted the importance of peaceful and lawful solutions.
Source: Reuters
Nicaragua
Meanwhile, Nicaragua criticized the U.S. operation. It called for Maduro’s release and respect for Venezuelan independence.
Source: WFAE
Panama
Panama, on the other hand, affirmed support for democratic institutions and multilateralism while urging caution.
Source: WFAE
Paraguay
Similarly, Paraguay pledged support for stabilization and a democratic transition in Venezuela.
Source: Reuters
Peru
Peru’s response was mixed. While some leaders welcomed U.S. involvement, others condemned it as imperialist.
Source: Al Jazeera
Uruguay
Uruguay rejected military intervention and stressed the need for peaceful multilateral dialogue.
Source: Reuters
Regional Overview
Overall, Latin American responses to the U.S. operation and Maduro’s capture remain divided. Some governments see it as a step toward democratic reform, while others view it as a violation of sovereignty and international law. Source: WFAE .
Many people have been giving their opinion on the matter including Claire Finkelstine, an international law scholar. “States have sovereignty rights, and you cannot just invade them and take them over,” she said.
