On Sunday, January 4, 2026, China urged the United States to immediately release Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, following the US’s seizure of them. The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the US action, labeling it a violation of international law. China called for the US to halt its actions and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation. This condemnation echoed sentiments from Russia and Iran, while allies like France and the EU expressed concern, albeit with nuanced positions on Maduro’s legitimacy.
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The EU has emphasized the importance of a peaceful transition in Venezuela, reiterating that Nicolás Maduro lacks legitimacy and calling for restraint. Following reports of Maduro’s alleged arrest by U.S. personnel on criminal charges, EU officials, including Kallas, have conferred with counterparts like U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Statements from U.S. officials alluded to charges against Maduro and his wife, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted with a provocative comment and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola applauded the removal.
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On Sunday, North Korea launched ballistic missiles towards the sea, shortly before the South Korean president’s departure for China to discuss North Korea’s nuclear program. South Korea’s joint chiefs of staff detected the launches, estimating the missiles flew approximately 560 miles. Japan also confirmed the launch and condemned it as a threat. This marks North Korea’s first ballistic missile launch since November, and analysts suggest this may be a strategic move. This occurred before a landmark congress of North Korea’s ruling party and after Kim Jong-un ordered the expansion of missile production.
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Sir Keir Starmer has stated that the UK was not involved in the US strike on Venezuela, which involved multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft. The Prime Minister intends to speak with Donald Trump to ascertain the facts of the overnight operation, emphasizing the need to establish all relevant information first. Despite facing pressure from opposition parties to condemn the action, Starmer has prioritized the safety of the approximately 500 British nationals in the country and is working closely with the embassy, while the Foreign Office has updated travel guidance. The US President has claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured and removed from the country, prompting varied reactions from political figures.
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The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs addressed the recent developments in Venezuela, specifically the detention of Nicolás Maduro. Ukraine reaffirmed its stance that Maduro’s regime violated democratic principles and human rights, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha underscored Ukraine’s support for the Venezuelan people’s right to freedom and democratic values. Ukraine’s position stems from its consistent defense of nations’ rights to live free from oppression and dictatorship, having refused to recognize Maduro’s legitimacy after contested elections and crackdowns.
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Following US strikes and the alleged capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Colombian President Gustavo Petro ordered the deployment of military forces to the Venezuelan border, condemning the US actions as an assault on Latin American sovereignty. The EU has called for restraint and respect for international law, with Spain offering to mediate. Russia and Iran have condemned the US actions as well. Petro also requested meetings with the Organization of American States and the UN to establish the international legality of the United States’ actions.
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Following alleged U.S. air strikes in Venezuela, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called for emergency meetings with the UN and OAS. Petro condemned the unilateral military action, emphasizing Colombia’s commitment to respecting sovereignty and peaceful conflict resolution. The Colombian government aims to preserve regional peace and de-escalate the situation, prioritizing dialogue while addressing potential humanitarian and migration needs on the border. These actions come after Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro called for solidarity against what he deemed “imperial aggression,” following reported U.S. air strikes related to alleged drug trafficking.
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The European Commission is investigating TikTok’s compliance with EU rules after Poland raised concerns about AI-generated videos advocating for a “Polexit.” Polish officials allege these videos, featuring young women in national symbols, constitute a coordinated disinformation campaign and a threat to public order and democratic processes. The Commission has already requested information from TikTok regarding its measures to address AI-related risks. Polish authorities believe the videos are likely Russian disinformation, due to their message and linguistic indicators, which could violate the Digital Services Act.
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Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced his openness to talks with the US regarding drug trafficking and oil, amidst escalating pressure from the Trump administration. The US has been conducting operations against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, resulting in numerous strikes and casualties. Maduro evaded confirmation of a US strike inside Venezuela, but he expressed readiness for dialogue on various issues. These actions are viewed by Maduro as a means for the US to remove him from power and gain access to the country’s oil reserves.
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On January 1, Russian forces attacked Feldman Ecopark near Kharkiv with a glide bomb, injuring a volunteer and causing significant damage. The attack destroyed winter houses for predators and birds, with founder Oleksandr Feldman reporting injuries to lions and the likely death of most birds. Additionally, the Russians attacked the Kholodnohirskyi district of Kharkiv and seven settlements in the region, injuring an 84-year-old woman and damaging multiple civilian structures. These attacks, including the use of glide bombs and drones, are part of the ongoing conflict and impact the city of Kharkiv.
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John Q. Hosedrinker