World leaders call for calm after US strikes, Maduro’s capture

Anadolu, Philippine News Agency

(Pexels photo)

ISTANBUL – Governments around the world urged restraint and respect for international law after the United States carried out air strikes in Venezuela and announced the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

Türkiye said it prioritizes stability in Venezuela and the safety of its people, warning that further escalation could harm regional and global security.

In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said Ankara is closely monitoring developments and stands ready to help address the crisis through lawful and diplomatic means. It added that Türkiye’s embassy in Caracas remains in contact with Turkish nationals.

The US operation, which President Donald Trump described as a “large-scale strike,” reportedly targeted multiple civilian and military facilities.

Venezuela declared a national emergency, while Washington said Maduro was detained and removed from the country following months of rising tensions and accusations of drug trafficking, which Maduro has denied.

China, Russia, Iran, Belarus, South Africa, and the African Union strongly condemned the US action, calling it a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and the UN Charter.

Several urged an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.

The European Union and several European leaders called for de-escalation and stressed that any political transition in Venezuela must be peaceful and consistent with international law, even as some reiterated that Maduro lacks democratic legitimacy.

The United Nations warned that the situation could destabilize the region and emphasized the need to protect civilians.

Meanwhile, multiple countries issued travel advisories and urged their citizens in Venezuela to remain cautious as the situation continues to unfold.