Amid Venezuela Turmoil, Guyana Holds Off Formal Response

The Government of Guyana has not yet issued a formal stance on the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, but it says it is closely monitoring developments while expressing support for U.S. efforts to uphold democracy and regional security.

Following Maduro’s dramatic ousting on Saturday, President Irfaan Ali convened a meeting of the Defence Board, while Prime Minister Mark Phillips traveled to the northwest to inspect Guyana Defence Force installations and meet with personnel. Despite these actions, the President did not comment publicly on the U.S. operation until approximately 9 p.m.

On social media accounts President Ali stated:

“The Government of Guyana continues to monitor the developments in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by the United States of America in Venezuela. Stability, respect for law, and democratic transition are critical to the future of Venezuela and the broader Americas. In this regard, Guyana supports efforts that uphold democratic norms and ensure that the region remains a Zone of Peace. The Government of Guyana welcomes the leadership of the President of the United States in reaffirming shared commitments to freedom, democracy, and regional security. We look forward to constructive engagement in Venezuela’s next chapter in the interest of all Venezuelans.”

The Government also said Guyana’s national security apparatus was placed on high alert following U.S. airstrikes in multiple areas of Venezuela, amid concerns over potential regional instability and refugee movements along the western border.

Last Saturday, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was arrested in a dramatic U.S. operation, sending shockwaves across the region. Fo U.S. President Donald Trump praised the move, describing it as decisive leadership aimed at restoring governance, democracy, and stability in Venezuela. The Venezuelan government, however, condemned the action, calling Maduro’s removal a kidnapping and an illegal act of foreign intervention. The development has heightened regional tensions, with neighbouring countries closely monitoring potential impacts on security and migration.