Canada calls for multilateral crisis resolution amid US-Venezuela situation

By Nash Villena, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
January 7, 2026

(File Photo | Prime Minister of Canada)

OTTAWA, Ontario — Prime Minister Mark Carney called on all parties involved in the ongoing situation in Venezuela to respect international law and acknowledge the Venezuelan people’s right to a democratic society.

In an issued statement on Saturday, Carney said that while his administration imposed additional sanctions on Venezuela since he assumed office, brought by “Nicolás Maduro’s brutally oppressive and criminal regime” where corruption and systemic human rights violations persist, it “welcomes the opportunity” for the Venezuelan people to achieve democracy anew.

“Canada has long supported a peaceful, negotiated, and Venezuelan-led transition process that respects the democratic will of the Venezuelan people. In keeping with our long-standing commitment to upholding the rule of law, sovereignty, and human rights, Canada calls on all parties to respect international law. We stand by the Venezuelan people’s sovereign right to decide and build their own future in a peaceful and democratic society,” the prime minister said.

“Canada [also] attaches great importance to resolution of crises through multilateral engagement and is in close contact with international partners about ongoing developments,” he added.

On the same day, the Global Affairs Canada (GAC), headed by Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, also affirmed Canada’s commitment to engage with its international partners in closely monitoring the developments in Venezuela.

“In keeping with our long-standing commitment to uphold the rule of law and to democracy, Canada stands by the people of Venezuela and their desire to live in a peaceful and democratic society. Canada also calls on all parties to exercise restraint and uphold international law,” said Anand.

The Canadian government assured its citizens that it is ready to extend aid to Canadians caught in the situation in Venezuela through its embassy in Colombia and “will continue to support Venezuelan refugees,” Carney said.