Brazil Condemns US Attacks on Venezuela, Calls for UN Response

Lula Denounces US Military Action in Venezuela

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Saturday, January 3, 2026, issued a strong condemnation of military actions undertaken by the United States against Venezuela. The condemnation followed reports of bombings on Venezuelan territory and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by US forces. President Lula characterized these actions as crossing an 'unacceptable line' and representing a 'grave affront to Venezuela's sovereignty'.

In statements made via social media, Lula emphasized that such attacks, which he views as a 'flagrant violation of international law,' pave the way for 'a world of violence, chaos, and instability, where the law of the strongest prevails over multilateralism'. He further noted that the incident is reminiscent of 'the worst moments of interference in the politics of Latin America and the Caribbean,' threatening the region's status as a zone of peace.

Emergency Diplomatic Response in Brasília

In response to the escalating crisis, an emergency meeting was convened at the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also known as the Itamaraty Palace, on Saturday morning. President Lula participated in the discussions via videoconference from Rio de Janeiro, while Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, who was on vacation, returned to Brasília to join the deliberations.

The diplomatic discussions focused on two primary concerns: the situation along the extensive Brazil-Venezuela border and ensuring the safety of Brazilian citizens residing in Venezuela. Brazilian Defense Minister José Múcio confirmed that the border in Roraima remained calm, monitored, and open, with no reports of Brazilians being injured in the events.

Call for United Nations Intervention and International Reactions

President Lula explicitly called for a 'vigorous response' from the United Nations to the US actions, reiterating Brazil's commitment to promoting dialogue and cooperation as a path forward. The US military operation, confirmed by President Donald Trump, involved airstrikes and the capture of President Maduro and his wife, who were subsequently charged with drug trafficking conspiracy. Trump also stated that the US would 'run' Venezuela and control its oil production until a 'transition of power'.

Brazil's condemnation aligns with reactions from several other nations. Countries including Russia, China, Cuba, Iran, Mexico, and Colombia have also voiced strong disapproval of the US military intervention, citing violations of sovereignty and international law.