The top representatives of the EU have called for respect for international law after President Donald Trump said the United States had “captured” Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
“The EU has repeatedly stated that Mr Maduro lacks legitimacy and has defended a peaceful transition,” Kallas wrote on X on Saturday. “Under all circumstances, the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be respected. We call for restraint.”
Kallas said that she had spoken with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the EU ambassador in Caracas, adding that the bloc was “closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela.”
“The safety of EU citizens in this country is our top priority,” added the Estonian politician.
Von derLeyen for a peaceful and democratic transition
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also referred to international law following the US attacks, but initially refrained from direct criticism.
“We stand by the people of Venezuela and support a peaceful and democratic transition,” the German politician posted on X. “Any solution must respect international law and the UN Charter.”
European Council president calls for de-escalation
European Council President António Costa expressed concern over the developments.
“The European Union calls for de-escalation and a resolution in full respect of international law and the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations,” Costa posted on X.
“The European Union will continue to support a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive solution in Venezuela,” Costa wrote.
Following months of growing tensions, the US launched surprise airstrikes on multiple targets on Venezuelan territory overnight, with Trump announcing on Saturday morning that the country’s authoritarian ruler Maduro and his wife had been “flown out of the country.”