External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed India’s worry about recent events in Venezuela following the US apprehension of President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro is currently detained in a New York prison after being captured by US forces. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of the Venezuelan people during the crisis.
India’s main focus is to ensure the Venezuelan population emerges positively from the crisis, given the longstanding positive bilateral relations. Jaishankar urged all involved parties to engage in dialogue to safeguard the interests and safety of the Venezuelan citizens. The crisis escalated after a controversial US military operation resulted in Maduro’s capture and transfer to the US to face charges.
The operation, known as Operation Absolute Resolve, involved explosions and actions in Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, with elite US military units participating. Maduro and his wife faced charges including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking in a federal court in Manhattan. Despite maintaining his innocence, Maduro was ordered to remain in custody until his next hearing on March 17. Venezuela’s Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, was sworn in as Interim President following Maduro’s capture.
India had earlier expressed concern over the developments in Venezuela and called for peaceful dialogue to ensure regional peace and stability. The Ministry of External Affairs reaffirmed India’s support for the well-being and safety of the Venezuelan people. The Indian Embassy in Caracas is in touch with the local Indian community, offering necessary assistance during these times.
