The Government of Ghana has issued a strongly worded condemnation of what it describes as a unilateral and unauthorised military invasion of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela by the United States of America, warning that the action poses grave risks to international stability and the global order.
In a press release dated January 4, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration expressed alarm over reports that US forces invaded Venezuela in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026, and subsequently abducted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Ghana stated that it strongly deplores the use of force without international authorisation, describing the action as a clear violation of the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and the fundamental principles of state sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.
Concerns Over Global Stability and Resource Control
According to the statement, the Government of Ghana is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela with “great concern,” noting that military assaults on sovereign states, attempts at occupation, and external control of strategic resources, particularly oil, carry far-reaching consequences for international peace and security.
The statement further highlighted remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump, in which he reportedly said the United States would “run” Venezuela until a transition is deemed appropriate and that major US oil companies would be invited to operate in the country. Ghana described these comments as deeply troubling and evocative of colonial and imperialist ambitions that have no place in the modern international system.
Ghana Warns Against Return to Colonial Practices
Ghana cautioned that tolerating such actions would undermine the sovereignty of all nations and expose the international community to serious risks. The government stressed that the post–Second World War global order was founded on respect for sovereignty and self-determination, principles that must not be eroded.
Reaffirming its long-standing foreign policy position, Ghana emphasized that only the people of Venezuela have the right to determine their political and democratic future, free from external coercion or military intervention.
Call for De-escalation and Release of Venezuelan Leaders
The Government of Ghana called for immediate de-escalation of tensions and demanded the unconditional release of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. It reiterated its unwavering opposition to invasion, occupation, colonialism, apartheid, and all forms of violations of international law.
Ghana concluded by reaffirming its commitment to defending international law and standing in solidarity with nations whose sovereignty and independence are threatened, underscoring its resolve to maintain a principled stance in global affairs
