Countries across the Western Balkans have issued mixed reactions following the United States’ military operation in Venezuela, which preceded the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his transfer to detention in New York.
US President Donald Trump announced that the United States would temporarily “administer” Venezuela until a proper transfer of power is completed, while also signaling intentions to utilize the country’s vast oil reserves following Maduro’s removal.
Maduro was transferred to a detention facility in New York on Sunday and is expected to appear in court later this week to face charges related to drug trafficking and weapons offenses. Prior to the operation, US authorities had repeatedly accused Maduro of running a “narco-state” and manipulating electoral processes.
Kosovo
Kosovo strongly backed the United States. President Vjosa Osmani stated on X that Kosovo stands firmly with the US and President Trump against Venezuela’s “narco-terrorist regime.”
She said Trump stood with the Venezuelan people and confronted Maduro’s narco-state, protecting the US and the wider world from cartels and organized crime.
Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti also confirmed Kosovo’s support for the US anti-narcotics operation, emphasizing that holding state actors accountable for drug trafficking is essential in combating the phenomenon.
Albania
Albania’s Minister for European Affairs, Elisa Spiropali, said Albania stands unequivocally with the United States and President Trump in their decisive actions against Venezuela’s narco-terrorist regime.
She praised US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s leadership in confronting authoritarianism, corruption, and transnational criminal networks, stressing that the Venezuelan people deserve freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.
North Macedonia
North Macedonia’s Foreign Minister Timco Mucunski welcomed the announcement of Maduro’s arrest and said he commended Secretary Rubio for his leadership against the regime’s narco-criminal networks.
He affirmed that North Macedonia stands with the United States and the Venezuelan people in support of freedom and democracy.
Serbia
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić criticized the capture of his ally Maduro, stating that it shows international law and the UN Charter “no longer function.”
While expressing Serbia’s desire for friendly relations with the US, Vučić said it was Serbia’s duty to point out violations of international law, adding that “the law of force” now dominates global politics.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Foreign Ministry called on all actors to act rationally, responsibly, and with restraint to prevent further escalation.
The Ministry expressed support for the Venezuelan people and regional stability, describing Maduro as a dictator who ruled through fear, repression, and electoral manipulation, and emphasized that the US remains Bosnia’s most important strategic partner.
Croatia
Croatia’s Foreign Ministry said it was closely monitoring developments in coordination with EU partners.
It stressed the importance of fighting international illegal activities in line with international law, protecting civilians, and ensuring the safety of Croatian citizens and diaspora in Venezuela.
The Ministry reiterated that Maduro lacks democratic legitimacy and highlighted Venezuela’s long-standing political, economic, and humanitarian crisis.
Montenegro
Montenegro has not issued an official reaction so far.
