Brussels: Twenty-six European Union member states have issued a joint statement urging calm and restraint following recent US military action in Venezuela, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law.
According to Anadolu Agency - English, the statement was released by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, highlighting the need for all parties involved to avoid escalation and work towards a peaceful resolution. The statement stressed the necessity of upholding the principles of international law and the UN Charter, particularly by UN Security Council members, given their responsibility in maintaining international security.
The EU's position, as articulated in the statement, is that Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's detained president, lacks democratic legitimacy. The EU has consistently advocated for a peaceful, Venezuelan-led transition to democracy that respects the nation's sovereignty. The statement emphasized the importance of respecting the Venezuelan people's right to determine their future.
Furthermore, the EU underscored the need to combat transnational organized crime and drug trafficking through international cooperation, while respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty. The EU remains in contact with the United States and other international partners to support dialogue aimed at achieving a negotiated, inclusive, and peaceful solution to the crisis in Venezuela, led by its citizens.
The statement also called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners in Venezuela and emphasized the coordinated efforts of EU Member States' consular authorities to ensure the safety of EU citizens, including those illegally detained in Venezuela.
This statement comes in response to US President Donald Trump's announcement of military action in Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The couple has been taken to a detention center in Brooklyn, New York, facing charges related to drug trafficking and alleged cooperation with gangs labeled as terrorist organizations. Maduro has denied these accusations, and officials in Caracas have demanded their release.