site.btaWestern Balkans Divided Over US Operation in Venezuela

Countries in the Western Balkans have responded in varying ways to the US military operation in Venezuela on Saturday, which resulted in the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro and his transfer to US authorities, according to regional broadcaster N1. On Sunday, Maduro was taken to a detention center in New York, and on Monday he appeared in court facing charges of narco-terrorism and weapons charges.

US President Donald Trump said that Washington would be running Venezuela until a transition of power takes place. He also indicated that the US intends to leverage the country’s rich oil resources following Maduro’s removal.

Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani expressed strong support for the US and President Trump on the social platform X, calling Maduro’s government a “narco-terrorist regime.” Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti echoed this view, describing the operation as a significant step in the global fight against drug trafficking.

Albania also voiced full support for the US actions. Minister for European Affairs Elisa Spiropali highlighted America’s role in countering authoritarian regimes and international criminal networks, emphasizing that the Venezuelan people deserve freedom, democracy, and a rule of law. She added that stability in Latin America is important for the Euro-Atlantic community as well.

North Macedonia’s Foreign Minister Timcho Mucunski welcomed Maduro’s arrest and praised US efforts to dismantle the criminal structures linked to his regime, stressing Skopje’s commitment to democratic values. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski also stated that his government “fully supports the positions and actions of our strategic partner, the United States.”

In contrast, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic condemned Maduro’s arrest, arguing that it undermines the international legal order. While stressing Serbia’s desire for good relations with the US, he said that international law has been violated and warned that the modern world is increasingly guided by “the law of force” rather than established norms.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for restraint and the prevention of escalation, while expressing support for the Venezuelan people and highlighting its strategic partnership with the US. The ministry also noted that Maduro’s long-term authoritarian rule has caused a severe political and humanitarian crisis.

Croatia said it is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the EU, emphasizing that the fight against international crime must respect international law and protect civilians. Particular attention was given to the safety of Croatian citizens and emigrants living in Venezuela.

So far, Montenegro has not issued an official comment, N1 reports.