SCOTTISH political leaders have condemned the US action in Venezuela as a flagrant breach of international law.

Responding to the unfolding events in the South American nation, Scottish Green MSP Patrick Harvie hit out at US President Donald Trump’s military strikes and kidnap of the Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro.

He said: “This is a dangerous and cynical act of imperialism and aggression from a Trump administration that has a proven contempt for human rights and international law.

“Donald Trump promised to end US wars, but since he was elected, he has cosied up to Vladimir Putin, armed Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, and bombed Venezuela.

“The unprovoked and deadly invasion of another country while its citizens sleep should appal all of us.

“The fact that Venezuela has some of the world’s largest oil reserves makes this feel very familiar.

“We stand in full solidarity with the people of Venezuela. This cannot be allowed to stand.”

He called it “a coup in all but name” and added: “The response from other governments will be key.

“Will they support the sovereignty of Venezuela and condemn these reckless and immoral attacks?”

Scottish First Minister John Swinney has said he is “deeply concerned” by the events in Venezuela.

He said that the international community “must now ensure that de-escalation, diplomacy and democracy are the foundations of what follows.”

Mr Swinney added that “it is absolutely essential that all nations act within the international rules-based system.”