The European Union has called on all parties to remain calm, show restraint, and respect international law amid developments in Venezuela, APA reports.
This was stated in a declaration shared on the X platform by the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, on behalf of 26 EU member states.
The statement stresses that, under all circumstances, the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be upheld. The EU underlines the importance of preventing escalation and considers a peaceful resolution of the crisis essential.
It is noted that respecting the will of the Venezuelan people remains the only way to restore democracy in Venezuela.
The EU once again stated that it does not recognize the legitimacy of Nicolás Maduro as a democratically elected president. At the same time, the Union emphasized its commitment to combating transnational organized crime and drug trafficking within the framework of international law, and to continuing coordination with the United States and other partners.
The declaration also calls for the unconditional release of all political prisoners currently detained in Venezuela and stresses the need for full respect for human rights and international humanitarian law. In addition, EU member states’ consular authorities are working in close coordination to ensure the safety of EU citizens, including those illegally detained in Venezuela.
The statement is supported by 26 EU member states.
On January 3, the United States conducted a military operation in Venezuela, during which airborne forces detained Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Maduro is currently in New York awaiting trial on charges related to narco-terrorism.
