Ghana slams U.S. action in Venezuela, demands Maduro’s immediate release

The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned what it describes as a unilateral and unauthorised military invasion of Venezuela by the United States, which reportedly resulted in the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Ghana said it was alarmed by the development, which reportedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 3.

Ghana expressed strong opposition to the use of force, stressing that the action violates the United Nations Charter, international law, and the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Venezuela.

The government said it is closely monitoring the situation and warned that such actions, including attempts at occupying foreign territory and exerting external control over natural resources, pose serious risks to global peace and stability.

Ghana also raised concern over comments attributed to US President Donald Trump suggesting that the United States would “run” Venezuela during a transition period and allow major US oil companies to operate there. According to Ghana, such statements echo colonial-era practices and set a dangerous precedent in the modern international system.

The Foreign Ministry said these actions undermine the global order and threaten the sovereignty of all nations, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to the principle of self-determination. It stressed that only the people of Venezuela have the right to decide their political and democratic future.

Ghana has called for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and the unconditional release of President Maduro and his wife.

The government reiterated its long-standing position against invasion, occupation, colonialism, and all violations of international law, stating that it will continue to defend these principles on the global stage.