US military intervention in Venezuela is a clear violation of international law, according to a senior Labour MP. Dame Emily Thornberry, the most senior Labour MP to speak out against Donald Trump's weekend strikes, has called for the UK to make its disapproval clear. She argues that the US action is 'not a legal action' and that there is 'no proper justification' for it. The UK government has so far refused to label the move illegal, instead stating that it is for the Americans to provide the legal basis for their actions. However, some Labour MPs, as well as the leaders of the Lib Dems, Greens, and the SNP, have criticized the US president's actions. Dame Emily emphasized the need for collective action, stating, 'We condemn Putin for doing it. We need to make clear that Donald Trump shouldn't be doing it either.' She warns that this sets a dangerous precedent, potentially emboldening Russia and China to act similarly. The UN Security Council, of which the UK is a permanent member, is set to discuss the US operation. The government faces calls to condemn the US action, with opposition parties like the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, and the Scottish National Party all criticizing the strikes. However, the Conservative Party has urged caution, suggesting that the full facts should be understood before passing judgment. The shadow minister Alex Burghart noted that in an era of strongmen, US action against Venezuela is 'totally understandable'. Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage acknowledged the action's unorthodox nature but suggested it might make China and Russia reconsider their actions. The US intervention led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, who were charged with weapons and drug offenses in New York. Maduro has denied the allegations, calling them a pretext for removing him from power. Trump has vowed to 'run the country' until a 'proper' transition of power occurs.
