A significant political confrontation has emerged within the UK Parliament regarding the recent US military intervention in Venezuela, with senior figures condemning the operation as a violation of international law. Dame Emily Thornberry, Chair of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, has emerged as the most prominent Labour MP to criticize President Donald Trump’s strikes that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
In a forceful statement on BBC Radio 4’s Westminster Hour, Thornberry declared the military action ‘not a legal action’ and stated she ‘cannot think of anything that could be a proper justification.’ She urged the UK and its allies to collectively reject what she termed ‘the law of the jungle,’ drawing parallels to Russian and Chinese expansionist policies. ‘We condemn Putin for doing it. We need to make clear that Donald Trump shouldn’t be doing it either,’ Thornberry emphasized, warning that the precedent could embolden claims over Ukraine and Taiwan.
The UK government has maintained a cautious stance, with Home Office Minister Mike Tapp declining to explicitly classify the operation as illegal during a BBC Breakfast interview. While characterizing Maduro as ‘an evil, illegitimate dictator who tortured people,’ Tapp emphasized the complexity of international legal determinations and stated the UK would consult with allies before reaching conclusions. The government reiterated its commitment to always ‘abide by international law as a nation.’
Opposition parties have united in their criticism, with Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, Green Party leader Zack Polanski, and SNP’s John Swinney all condemning the operation’s legality. Conversely, Conservative shadow minister Alex Burghart expressed understanding for US actions against Venezuela’s strongman leadership, while Reform UK’s Nigel Farage acknowledged the operation was ‘unorthodox and contrary to international law’ but potentially beneficial if it deterred adversaries.
The developments occur as Maduro and his wife face weapon and drug charges in New York federal court, accused of profiting from cocaine smuggling operations. With Venezuela’s Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez preparing to assume interim leadership, the UN Security Council—where the UK holds permanent membership—is scheduled to convene and discuss the escalating situation.