Iran, Cuba, and Brazil have united in condemning the US military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called the act a “flagrant violation” of international law during urgent calls with Cuban and Brazilian counterparts this week.
🔥 Why it matters: The unprecedented seizure of a sitting head of state has sparked fears of escalating tensions in Latin America. Araghchi warned that Washington’s “bullying” threatens global legal norms, while Cuba’s Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla labeled it an “illegal invasion” compromising regional security.
🇧🇷 Brazil’s Mauro Vieira confirmed plans to challenge the action through UN Security Council and regional bodies, stating: “This sets a dangerous precedent no nation should ignore.” The three nations are rallying developing countries through platforms like the Non-Aligned Movement to counter what they call “belligerent unilateralism.”
📅 Context: The US has maintained naval forces near Venezuela since 2025 under anti-drug operations—a justification Caracas dismisses as cover for regime change. Saturday’s dramatic escalation marks a new peak in tensions that could redefine power dynamics in the Western Hemisphere.
