Brazil, Russia, France UN and South Africa condemn US capture of Maduro

SAO PAULO/ WASHIGTON: Brazil has strongly condemned United States military action in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, warning that Washington’s intervention sets a dangerous precedent and violates Venezuela’s sovereignty.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Saturday that the US operation had “crossed an unacceptable line,” urging a strong response from the United Nations. He reiterated that Brazil remains committed to dialogue and peaceful engagement in the region.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump confirmed that US forces had attacked Venezuela and deposed Maduro — the most direct American military intervention in Latin America since the 1989 invasion of Panama.

Lula, who had earlier warned that armed intervention in Venezuela would result in a “humanitarian catastrophe,” again offered Brazil’s readiness to mediate between the parties. Brazilian authorities also convened an emergency cabinet meeting to assess the situation.

Brazil’s foreign ministry said Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira spoke with his Venezuelan counterpart following the developments, though details of the discussion were not disclosed.

Border briefly closed, then reopened

Brazil’s Federal Police reported that Venezuela temporarily closed its border with Brazil amid heightened tensions. Roraima state Governor Antonio Denarium later confirmed that the crossing reopened, adding that his state receives nearly 70 per cent of Venezuelan refugees entering Brazil.

Officials said there were no immediate reports of a surge in refugee arrivals linked to the latest escalation.

Russia, France criticize US action

Russia called on Washington to release Maduro and his wife, saying the Venezuelan president was legally elected and must be freed immediately.

France also criticized the US operation, saying it violated the international law principle prohibiting the use of force and stressing that lasting political solutions “cannot be imposed from the outside.”

UN expresses deep concern

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced alarm over the US action, warning that it sets a “dangerous precedent.” His spokesperson said the UN chief was concerned that international law and the UN Charter had not been respected.

South Africa seeks urgent UNSC meeting

South Africa called for an emergency session of the UN Security Council to discuss the situation, terming the US strikes a “manifest violation” of the UN Charter and the territorial integrity of Venezuela.

Mixed reactions among Venezuelans abroad

The developments triggered celebrations among sections of the Venezuelan diaspora, many of whom left the country amid economic collapse and political turmoil. Crowds gathered in cities such as Santiago, Chile, cheering Maduro’s capture and expressing hope for political change.

Others voiced uncertainty about what comes next for Venezuela. Some expressed a mix of relief and anxiety, saying the strikes raised questions about stability and the country’s political future.

Background: years-long migration crisis

Since 2014, an estimated 7.7 million Venezuelans — about 20 per cent of the population — have left the country amid economic crisis, shortages and political repression. Colombia hosts the largest number of Venezuelan migrants, followed by Peru and Spain.

As security forces patrolled largely empty streets in Caracas on Saturday, residents stocked up on essentials, anticipating potential unrest or extended uncertainty.

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