The Government of Ghana has issued a strong condemnation of what it described as a unilateral and unauthorised military action by the United States in Venezuela, warning that the development poses serious threats to international peace, sovereignty, and the global legal order.
In a statement released on Sunday, January 4, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration said Ghana was deeply alarmed by reports that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were abducted during the operation, which allegedly took place in the early hours of Saturday, January 3.
Violation of international law
Ghana said it strongly opposes the use of force in resolving international disputes, stressing that the reported action constitutes a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Venezuela.
The government warned that unilateral military interventions, including attempts to occupy foreign territory or impose external control over natural resources, undermine the foundations of the international system and endanger global stability.
Concern over US statements
Accra also expressed concern over comments attributed to US President Donald Trump, reportedly suggesting that the United States would “run” Venezuela during a transition period and allow major US oil companies to operate in the country.
According to Ghana, such statements echo colonial-era practices and represent a dangerous precedent in modern international relations.
The Foreign Ministry noted that these actions and statements threaten the sovereignty of all nations and weaken the rules-based international order.
Call for de-escalation
Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of self-determination, stressing that only the people of Venezuela have the right to decide their political and democratic future, free from external coercion.
The government called for:
• Immediate de-escalation of tensions
• The unconditional release of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife
• Respect for international law and diplomatic norms
Ghana’s position
The statement reiterated Ghana’s long-standing opposition to invasion, occupation, colonialism, and all forms of external domination, adding that the country will continue to defend these principles in bilateral and multilateral forums, including the United Nations.
Ghana said it remains closely engaged with developments in Venezuela and urged the international community to work collectively toward a peaceful, lawful, and diplomatic resolution of the crisis.
Source: Africa Publicity
