UK Maintains Cautious Stance on US Operation in Venezuela

The UK government’s response to the US operation in Venezuela has focused on supporting international law while avoiding direct criticism of President Trump’s actions. This approach has prompted discussion among political figures and the public regarding the UK’s diplomatic position.

Officials in London stated that the UK would abstain if a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning the US arrest of Nicolás Maduro were brought to a vote. Instead of assessing the legality of the US action, the government emphasised its general support for international law in public statements.

At the United Nations, the UK’s deputy ambassador reiterated the government’s backing for international legal standards and described Maduro’s leadership as lacking legitimacy. The UK did not offer an explicit judgement on the US operation itself during these proceedings.

Labour MPs, including Emily Thornberry and Richard Burgon, along with Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, expressed dissatisfaction with Labour leader Keir Starmer’s reluctance to criticise the US operation. Thornberry, who chairs the Commons Foreign Affairs Select Committee, said the US actions should be addressed, and highlighted concerns about powerful countries overriding established rules.

What the numbers show

• A YouGov poll found more than twice as many Britons disapproved of the US operation as supported it
• The UK government indicated it would abstain on a potential UN Security Council resolution on the issue
• Official statements focused on support for international law rather than the legality of the US action

The government’s approach has drawn attention from various parliamentary figures, who have called for a more explicit response to the events in Venezuela. The debate has included concerns about the UK’s position on international norms and the influence of major powers in global affairs.

Public opinion in the UK, as measured by the YouGov survey, showed a clear trend of disapproval toward the US operation. The poll indicated that support for the US action was considerably lower than the level of opposition among British respondents.

While the government maintained its neutral stance, the issue has continued to generate discussion among political leaders and the wider public. The focus on international law and abstention from direct condemnation has shaped the UK’s diplomatic response to the situation.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.