Singapore Expresses Grave Concern Over US Venezuela Intervention | Quick Digest

Singapore Expresses Grave Concern Over US Venezuela Intervention | Quick Digest
Singapore has voiced deep concern over the US intervention in Venezuela, which involved seizing President Maduro. It warns the action undermines international law and poses threats to small nations globally. The intervention, spearheaded by the Trump administration, draws widespread international criticism.

Singapore MFA expressed grave concern over US intervention in Venezuela.

US forces, under Trump, seized Venezuelan President Maduro on January 3, 2026.

Singapore emphasized adherence to international law and UN Charter principles.

Intervention threatens sovereignty of small states and sets a dangerous precedent.

Trump aims for US to 'run' Venezuela and exploit its vast oil reserves.

Asian nations, including India, issued travel advisories for Venezuela.

Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) issued a statement on January 4, 2026, expressing 'grave concern' regarding the United States' military intervention in Venezuela on January 3, 2026. This intervention saw US forces, under the direction of President Donald Trump, seize Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, subsequently bringing them to the United States to face drug and narco-terrorism charges. President Trump declared that the US would 'run' Venezuela and harness its significant oil reserves. Singapore firmly reiterated its commitment to international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, which are fundamental to safeguarding the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all states, particularly smaller nations. The MFA explicitly stated Singapore's consistent opposition to actions that contravene international law, including foreign military intervention in any country. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong further underscored these concerns on January 8, 2026, highlighting that the US intervention was not justified and its long-term consequences on the international system are a serious worry for small countries. The broader international community, including several Asian countries, echoed Singapore's apprehensions, warning that such unilateral actions could weaken global adherence to international law and set a dangerous precedent. Countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia also called for restraint and peaceful resolution. India was also mentioned among Asian countries that urged its citizens to defer all travel to Venezuela amidst the unfolding situation. The US administration's move to control Venezuelan oil assets and dictate the country's future has been widely criticized for undermining sovereign rights and international norms.
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