Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has stated that military action ordered by US President Donald Trump against Venezuela constitutes a breach of international law, though he suggested the move might have positive geopolitical consequences.
Unorthodox Strikes in Caracas
The comments follow a dramatic overnight operation on January 3, 2026, which saw explosions rock parts of the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. US forces captured the country's president, Nicolas Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores, flying them out of the nation after months of sustained pressure from Washington.
Eyewitness reports and imagery depicted black smoke pouring from buildings in the city as soldiers descended, with fires raging through the night.
Farage's Qualified Support
In a significant admission from a close political ally of the former US president, Mr Farage took to social media platform X to give his analysis. He characterised the American actions as "unorthodox and contrary to international law."
However, the Brexiteer figurehead argued there could be a strategic upside, stating: "if they make China and Russia think twice, it may be a good thing." He expressed hope that the Venezuelan people could now "turn a new leaf without Maduro."
UK Government Seeks Clarity, Confirms Non-Involvement
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer moved swiftly to distance the United Kingdom from the operation. Speaking on Saturday, he confirmed Britain was "not involved in any way" in the US strike.
Mr Starmer stated his intention to speak directly with President Trump to "establish the facts" of the fast-moving situation, noting he had not yet been in contact with the US leader. He indicated he would also consult with other allies.
The Prime Minister's immediate focus, alongside the Foreign Office, is on the safety of approximately 500 British nationals known to be in Venezuela. Officials are working to safeguard them, and travel advice has been urgently updated to advise against all travel to the South American country.
The Foreign Office guidance instructs those already in Venezuela to:
- Shelter in place but be ready to change plans quickly.
- Regularly review departure options and ensure travel documents are valid.
- Have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on UK government support.
The situation remains fluid, with President Trump expected to give a press conference that may provide further official details on the operation and its objectives.
