Keir Starmer emphasized the significance of upholding international law following the US military strikes in Venezuela on Saturday. President Donald Trump confirmed the attack on Venezuela’s capital after a series of explosions rocked the city, including the Venezuelan Ministry of Defense at Fort Tiuna. The strikes also affected an area near a major military base, causing power outages.
In response to the situation, the Prime Minister refrained from condemning the strikes, stating that the UK was not involved and focusing on the safety of British nationals in Venezuela. Mr. Starmer echoed the need for more information before making judgments, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law.
Amid reports of explosions and low-flying aircraft in Caracas, tensions escalated following threats from Trump towards the Venezuelan president. Trump later announced “large scale strikes” against Venezuela, claiming the capture and removal of President Maduro and his wife from the country. The bombing came after longstanding tensions between the US and Venezuela over drug trafficking allegations.
Opposition leaders, including Ed Davey and Zack Polanski, called on the PM to denounce the US military actions in Venezuela, citing concerns about international law violations and safety implications. The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office advised against travel to Venezuela, urging British nationals in the country to stay informed, have contingency plans, and ensure valid travel documents.
The situation remains fluid and evolving, with ongoing international scrutiny and calls for diplomatic responses to the crisis in Venezuela.