UK right to weigh diplomacy before ‘calling out’ allies on international law breaches, says attorney general

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 6 min read 100% complete by Pippa Crerar Political editorJanuary 9, 2026 at 04:14 PM

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UK Attorney General Richard Hermer stated that nations are justified in considering diplomatic relations when deciding whether to publicly condemn allies for breaches of international law. This comes after the UK government faced criticism for its muted response to the US attack on Venezuela. Hermer, in an interview, argued that "statecraft" allows leaders to weigh various factors when holding allies accountable. While refraining from directly criticizing the US, his comments arrive amid domestic pressure for a stronger stance against the Trump administration's actions. The Labour party, including some MPs and senior figures, have urged a more robust response, while Keir Starmer and the foreign secretary have avoided explicitly labeling the Venezuela attack as a breach of international law. Hermer emphasized the UK's commitment to the international rules-based order and defended Starmer's position.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Eluned Morgan 40% Reform UK 40% Russia 40% Emily Thornberry ×250% Yvette Cooper ×250% Greenland ×350% Labour Party ×260% Venezuela ×360% United States ×270% Keir Starmer ×370% UK ×380% Richard Hermer ×390%

Keywords

international law 100% diplomacy 80% attorney general 70% uk 70% breaches of international law 60% venezuela 60% allies 60% rules-based order 50% statecraft 50% greenland 40%