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UK Distances Itself From US Venezuela Operation, Legal Review Under Way

Downing Street is reviewing the US raid's legal basis under pressure for clarity at home.

Overview

  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain was not involved in the operation, reiterated support for international law, and is seeking a full briefing from President Trump and allies.
  • Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is due to make a statement to the House of Commons today on the latest developments.
  • The government is prioritising the safety of roughly 500 British nationals in Venezuela, with the Foreign Office advising against all travel and urging people to shelter in place with emergency plans.
  • President Donald Trump said US forces captured Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores, announced narcotics and weapons indictments, and stated the US would run Venezuela until a safe transition.
  • The UN expressed deep alarm about the escalation and possible breaches of international law, while UK political leaders issued sharply differing responses over whether to condemn the US action.