The Government of Ghana has issued a strong condemnation of what it characterizes as a unilateral and unauthorized military incursion into Venezuela by the United States, which allegedly led to the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Ghana expressed its alarm regarding the incident, which reportedly took place in the early hours of Saturday, January 3.
Ghana articulated its firm opposition to the use of force, emphasizing that such actions contravene the United Nations Charter, international law, and the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Venezuela.
The government indicated that it is vigilantly monitoring the situation and cautioned that such actions, including attempts to occupy foreign territory and exert external control over natural resources, pose significant threats to global peace and stability.
Ghana also expressed concern over remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump, which suggested that the United States would “run” Venezuela during a transitional phase and permit major US oil companies to operate within the country. Ghana contended that such statements reflect colonial-era practices and establish a perilous precedent in the contemporary international landscape.
The Foreign Ministry asserted that these actions undermine the global order and jeopardize the sovereignty of all nations, reaffirming Ghana’s dedication to the principle of self-determination. It underscored that only the citizens of Venezuela possess the right to determine their political and democratic future.
Ghana has called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the unconditional release of President Maduro and his wife.
The government reiterated its enduring stance against invasion, occupation, colonialism, and all breaches of international law, affirming its commitment to uphold these principles on the global stage.
