The Government of Ghana issued a formal statement on Sunday expressing alarm and condemnation following a military invasion of Venezuela by the United States and the reported abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. According to the Ghanaian government, the military action occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026.
In a strongly worded communique, Ghana deplored the use of unilateral force, characterizing the operation as a violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the territorial integrity of a sovereign state. The Ghanaian government stated it is monitoring the situation with great concern, warning that the occupation of foreign territories and the perceived pursuit of external control over oil resources pose significant risks to global stability and the international order.
The statement specifically highlighted remarks attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the administration of Venezuela during a transition period and the involvement of American oil companies. Ghanaian officials described these declarations as reminiscent of colonial-era imperialism, asserting that such ambitions have no place in the modern world and set a dangerous precedent that undermines the sovereignty of all nations.
Reaffirming its commitment to the principle of self-determination, Ghana maintained that the Venezuelan people alone should determine their political future. The government concluded its message by calling for an immediate de-escalation of hostilities and the release of President Maduro and the First Lady, while pledging to uphold its long-standing diplomatic position against foreign invasion and the violation of international law.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
