The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned what it describes as the unilateral and unauthorised military invasion of Venezuela by the United States of America, as well as the reported 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, the government said it was deeply alarmed by reports that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Ghana said it strongly deplores the unilateral use of force, stressing that such actions constitute a clear violation of the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and the core principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of states.

“The Government of the Republic of Ghana is alarmed at the unilateral and unauthorised invasion of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela by the United States of America,” the statement said.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry noted that it is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela, warning that attacks on international law, attempts at foreign occupation, and external control of strategic resources such as oil pose serious threats to global stability and the international order.

The statement also expressed concern over comments attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting that the United States would “run” Venezuela until what he described as a “safe, proper and judicious transition” is achieved, while inviting major U.S. oil companies to operate in the country.

According to the ministry, such remarks evoke painful memories of colonial and imperialist practices and set a dangerous precedent within the post–Second World War international system.

“These declarations are reminiscent of the colonial and imperialist era and should have no place in the modern global order,” the statement warned.

Ghana reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the principle of self-determination, insisting that only the people of Venezuela have the right to determine their political and democratic future without external interference.

The government called for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and demanded the unconditional release of President Maduro and his wife.

“The Government of Ghana calls for immediate de-escalation and the release of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife,” the statement added.

Ghana further reiterated its long-standing opposition to invasion, occupation, colonialism, apartheid, and all forms of violations of international law, emphasising its resolve to defend global peace, sovereignty, and international cooperation.