UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has issued a stark warning about the "disintegration" of the rules-based international order, following the controversial US military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
A World Becoming 'Less Safe'
In the wake of the event, Streeting expressed profound concern for global stability and British national security. He described the situation in Venezuela as "morbid symptoms" of a system that is breaking down. "A world without rules is a world in which we are less safe," he stated, emphasising that the perceived crumbling of international law directly threatens UK interests.
While carefully avoiding direct criticism of former US President Donald Trump, who hailed the mission as a "brilliant operation," Streeting suggested he was deeply disturbed by the unfolding international picture. He noted that the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, was meticulously considering Britain's response, prioritising national security and the democratic will of the Venezuelan people above immediate commentary.
Call for European Defence Reinforcement
In a separate interview, Streeting pointed to the abduction and indictment of Maduro on drugs and weapons charges as a pivotal moment. He argued it underscored the urgent need for Europe to assume greater responsibility for its own intelligence and defence capabilities.
"How do we make sure that we are upholding European defence and security, including our own national security, at a time when the rules-based order has been disintegrating before our eyes?" he questioned during an appearance on GB News. This call highlights a growing debate about strategic autonomy in a volatile geopolitical climate.
Political Reactions and Legal Uncertainty
The raid has sparked divided reactions. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch defended the action as "morally ... the right thing to do," arguing that Venezuela had already been compromised by foreign actors like Russia and Iran. Meanwhile, Nicolás Maduro pleaded not guilty to the charges in a New York court on Monday, as Venezuela faces profound uncertainty over its future leadership and electoral process.
Streeting concluded by reinforcing the UK government's formal support for the international rules-based system, but acknowledged its severe strain. "We have seen it creaking at the seams, and now we see it disintegrating," he said, framing the Venezuela incident as a critical test for global governance and European security strategy.
