European leaders divided over Venezuela operation

European leaders are split between welcoming Nicolás Maduro's removal and insisting on respect for international law; US officials described the operation as self-defence over drug‑trafficking while some legal scholars dispute its legality.

European leaders gave mixed responses after a US operation led to the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela. Some officials welcomed the end of what they described as a repressive regime and called for a peaceful, democratic transition. Others emphasised the need to uphold international law and the UN charter when states use force. The episode has prompted broader debate in Europe about how legal norms should apply to cross‑border actions by powerful states. Key developments: - European leaders expressed both cautious support for a democratic transition and concern about legal limits; statements came from figures including Ursula von der Leyen, Kaja Kallas, Emmanuel Macron, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Giorgia Meloni, Friedrich Merz and Jean‑Noël Barrot. - US officials framed the operation as justified on grounds of self‑defence and alleged Venezuelan involvement in drug‑trafficking. - Some international legal experts, notably Yale professor Oona Hathaway, said they see no plausible UN Charter justification for the use of force and described the action as a breach of international law. - Commentators and analysts noted possible consequences for multilateral institutions; an Atlantic Council fellow observed that mechanisms such as the International Criminal Court have so far not issued indictments despite long‑running investigations into Venezuela. Summary: The episode has deepened divisions in Europe between leaders prioritising a democratic transition and those emphasising adherence to international law. Undetermined at this time.