Spain Leads EU Opposition to US Military Intervention in Venezuela

The Spanish government has firmly opposed the recent U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, which aimed to capture the de facto president Nicolás Maduro and took place on January 3, 2026. Spain, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, has taken a clear stance denouncing the operation as illegal and dangerous. Albares described the U.S. intervention as a "law of the jungle" and a "dangerous precedent" that threatens international law and regional stability.

Spain's representative at the United Nations, Héctor Gómez, emphasized at a special session that the intervention violates international law and undermines Venezuela's sovereignty over its natural resources. Speaking against violence, Gómez called for dialogue and cooperation to address Venezuela’s political crisis and organized crime issues. The Spanish government has formally rejected Maduro’s electoral victory from July 2024 due to alleged irregularities but insists on a peaceful resolution through dialogue rather than military force.

Within the European Union, Spain has taken a leadership role in condemning the U.S. actions. Albares highlighted a joint statement signed by 26 EU member states opposing the intervention, setting Spain apart from some European countries that cautiously framed the U.S. assault as a potential return to democracy. French President Emmanuel Macron initially welcomed the action but subsequently expressed doubts about its legality, while Germany advocated for respect for international law and a legitimate electoral process.

Spain’s position also aligns with progressive governments in Latin America, reinforcing calls for greater EU military autonomy and a reevaluation of Spain’s relationship with the United States amid increasing tensions. Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun criticized the Spanish opposition party, PP, accusing them of politicizing the Venezuelan crisis for partisan goals.

Prime Minister Sánchez reiterated Spain’s commitment to respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity worldwide, firmly declining to recognize the U.S. military intervention and emphasizing the importance of upholding the international order based on rules and justice. The situation remains tense as Spain continues to push for diplomatic solutions and increased dialogue at the United Nations and within the EU framework.