UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Distances Britain from US Military Operation in Venezuela
UK, 3 Jan 2026 (BNN Web Staff)
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated on January 3, 2026, that the United Kingdom was “not involved in any way” in the United States’ large-scale military strikes on Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Starmer’s Response
Speaking to British broadcasters amid the rapidly developing situation, Starmer, a former human rights lawyer, emphasized caution and adherence to international norms:
“It’s obviously a fast-moving situation and we need to establish all the facts.”
“I want to speak to President Trump. I want to speak to allies.”
“I can be absolutely clear that we were not involved… and I always say and believe we should all uphold international law.”
Starmer declined to immediately condemn the U.S. action, unlike some opposition leaders, stating he first needed to fully understand what had occurred. He also confirmed that the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is working to ensure the safety of approximately 500 British citizens in Venezuela, where the government advises against all travel.
Background on the US Operation
Early on January 3, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that American forces had conducted a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela, capturing Maduro and his wife and flying them out of the country. The operation, reportedly involving elite U.S. Army Delta Force units, targeted military sites in Caracas and other areas, with explosions reported overnight.
Trump described the mission as a success in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement, aimed at bringing Maduro to trial on long-standing U.S. charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy. Maduro and his wife are reportedly en route to New York to face indictment.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez stated that the government did not know Maduro’s whereabouts and demanded “proof of life.” International reactions have been mixed, with condemnations from allies like Russia, Cuba, and Iran, citing violations of sovereignty.
Domestic Political Reactions in the UK
Liberal Democrats and Greens: Leaders Sir Ed Davey and Zack Polanski called the U.S. actions “unlawful” and urged Starmer to condemn them outright.
Reform UK: Leader Nigel Farage, whose party leads in some opinion polls, acknowledged the operation likely “broke international law” but suggested it “may be a good thing” if it deters adversaries like China and Russia.
The incident underscores tensions in transatlantic relations as Starmer navigates the “special relationship” with the U.S. while prioritizing international law. The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, with potential implications for regional stability and global oil markets.
