French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly stated that France does not endorse the method employed by the United States to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, even as he reiterated his view of Maduro as a dictator. The remarks highlight a complex Western response to the dramatic military operation that has upended Venezuelan politics.
Macron's Stance on the US Operation
During a cabinet meeting on Monday, President Macron clarified France's position on the recent events in Venezuela. A government spokesperson was quoted stating, "The method used by the US to capture Maduro is neither supported nor approved by France." This direct criticism marks a significant point of divergence between Paris and Washington regarding the execution of Operation Absolute Resolve.
However, Macron's disapproval was strictly limited to the tactics used. He simultaneously reaffirmed his longstanding characterization of Nicolas Maduro, who has led Venezuela since 2013 amidst widespread allegations of election rigging, as a "dictator." The French leader added that the strongman's removal from power constituted "good news for Venezuelans."
The Swift US Operation and Charges
Macron's comments came in response to a high-stakes military action carried out by United States forces. On January 3, in a pre-dawn raid inside Venezuelan territory, US operatives detained President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife, Cilia Flores.
According to the Trump administration, the couple was swiftly transferred to a US naval vessel and subsequently flown to New York. They are now expected to face a litany of serious charges in the American judicial system. The charges reportedly include:
- Narco-terrorism
- Drug trafficking
- Weapons-related offences
This operation was the climax of months of escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. Since September of last year, the US has conducted dozens of strikes targeting vessels it accused of being involved in drug trafficking networks linked to Venezuela.
International Law Concerns and Global Reactions
The US-led operations, which have reportedly resulted in more than 115 deaths, have raised alarm among international legal experts. Many have voiced concerns over potential violations of international law, questioning the legality of cross-border military actions to apprehend a foreign head of state.
France's nuanced critique—condemning the method but not the outcome—reflects a broader struggle among Western nations to formulate a unified response. Other global powers have also weighed in. China condemned the US action as "unilateral bullying," asserting that no country should act as the world's policeman. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced scrutiny for his response, having previously attacked Putin over Ukraine but appearing more measured in condemning the US strike in Venezuela.
The capture of Nicolas Maduro opens a new and uncertain chapter for Venezuela, with the world now watching closely as the legal proceedings unfold in New York and the political vacuum in Caracas begins to take shape.
