Fico: US Strike on Venezuela Signals Collapse of Post-WWII Global Order

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has said that the recent US military action against Venezuela is further evidence that the international order established after World War II is unraveling.

Earlier on Saturday, US forces reportedly carried out airstrikes on Venezuela and detained President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife. The two were taken to the United States, where they face charges related to an alleged drug trafficking conspiracy. Maduro has repeatedly denied these accusations, claiming Washington’s true aim has been regime change and control over Venezuela’s natural resources.

US President Donald Trump later stated that following Maduro’s removal, Washington would take control of Venezuela and "safeguard" its oil sector.

In a statement shared on social media, Fico argued that the operation demonstrates how powerful nations increasingly disregard international law. He said military force is now being used without authorization from the UN Security Council, allowing strong states to act freely in pursuit of their own interests.

Fico stressed that, as the leader of a small country, he opposes what he described as the erosion of international legal norms. He said he had taken similar positions in the past, including rejecting the US-led invasion of Iraq, refusing to recognize Kosovo’s independence, criticizing Russia’s use of force in Ukraine, and questioning assessments of the situation in Gaza.

The Slovak prime minister also questioned how the European Union would respond to the US action, saying the attack warranted condemnation. He warned that the EU would either denounce the use of force in Venezuela—remaining consistent with its position on Ukraine—or once again expose itself to accusations of hypocrisy.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas responded by calling for restraint and urging respect for the UN Charter.

Meanwhile, both China and Russia strongly criticized the US operation. Russia’s Foreign Ministry described the strikes and Maduro’s detention as a serious violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and demanded his immediate release.