Ghana Condemns U.S. Military Action in Venezuela, Calls for Release of President Maduro

 

Accra, January 4, 2026 — The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned the reported military invasion of Venezuela by the United States of America and the subsequent abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. 

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, Ghana described the action as unilateral and unauthorised, stating that it violates the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and the sovereignty and political independence of Venezuela.

According to the statement, the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026. Ghana expressed grave concern over what it termed an assault on international law, warning that such actions threaten global stability and the established world order.

The govrnment further raised alarm over remarks attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting that the United States would “run” Venezuela during a transitional period and invite American oil companies to operate in the country. Ghana said these comments evoke memories of colonial and imperial control, which have no place in the modern international system.

Ghana reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the principle of self-determination, insisting that only the Venezuelan people have the right to decide their political and democratic future without external interference.

The statement called for immediate de-escalation of tensions and demanded the release of President Maduro and his wife, while reiterating Ghana’s opposition to invasion, occupation, colonialism, and all forms of violation of international law.

Why Ghana Had to Involve Herself

Ghana’s involvement is rooted in principle, not politics. Historically and diplomatically, Ghana has maintained a firm stance against foreign domination and unlawful military intervention — a position shaped by its own colonial past.

SPEAKING TOO MUCH 

1. Commitment to International Law

Ghana is a signatory to the United Nations Charter, which prohibits the use of force against sovereign states except under very strict conditions. Remaining silent would contradict Ghana’s obligations and diplomatic record.

2. Africa’s Collective Voice

As a respected African state with a history of peacekeeping and diplomacy, Ghana often speaks not only for itself but as part of a broader Global South perspective, particularly on issues of sovereignty and neo-imperialism.

3. Dangerous Global Precedent

Ghana’s statement highlights the concern that allowing powerful nations to invade weaker states under political or economic justifications sets a dangerous precedent that threatens all nations, especially developing ones.

4. Oil and Economic Interests

The reference to U.S. oil companies raised fears of resource-driven intervention, a pattern familiar to many post-colonial states. Ghana’s reaction reflects sensitivity to exploitation masked as political transition.

5. Non-Aligned Foreign Policy Tradition

Ghana has consistently pursued a non-aligned and principled foreign policy, choosing diplomacy, dialogue, and multilateralism over military aggression.

04 January