WILLEMSTAD – A coalition of solidarity organizations in Curaçao has publicly condemned the events that unfolded in Venezuela on Saturday, January 3, 2026. In a joint statement dated January 7, the groups expressed their strong disapproval of what they describe as a military aggression by the United States against Venezuelan territory.
In their declaration, the organizations characterize the U.S. action as a blatant violation of the United Nations Charter, particularly the principles of sovereignty, legal equality of states and the prohibition on the use of force. By invoking these international legal standards, the statement frames the incident within the context of international law and norms.
The joint declaration was formally sent to several recipients, including the government and Parliament of Curaçao, the Representation of the Netherlands in Scharloo, the U.S. and Venezuelan consulates, and regional bodies such as CARICOM and ECLAC. According to the document, it has already been received by the Venezuelan consulate in Curaçao.
The condemnation comes amid widespread global reactions to the U.S. military strikes in Venezuela on January 3, during which U.S. forces launched a large-scale operation targeting President Nicolás Maduro. The operation, which involved airstrikes and special forces actions, resulted in Maduro’s capture and subsequent transfer to the United States, where he has been indicted on drug trafficking and related charges. International legal experts and several world leaders have questioned the legality of the U.S. action under international law and the UN Charter.
The solidarity groups’ statement reflects growing concern among civil society actors in the Caribbean region over the implications of external military interventions and the importance of respecting state sovereignty and international legal norms. Their appeal to regional and international organizations underscores a desire for diplomacy and peaceful resolution in addressing the crisis in Venezuela.