New Delhi: India on Monday expressed deep concern over the rapidly unfolding situation in Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores by United States special forces in a dramatic overnight operation in the capital, Caracas. New Delhi said it is closely monitoring developments and stressed the need for peace and stability in the region.
In an official statement, India reaffirmed its support for the safety and well-being of the people of Venezuela. It called on all stakeholders to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue and avoid actions that could further destabilise the country or the wider region. The government also confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Caracas is in constant contact with members of the Indian community and is providing all necessary assistance to ensure their safety.
The developments follow a major US military operation that brought an abrupt end to Maduro’s 12-year rule. After months of mounting pressure and warnings, US forces launched air and ground strikes before carrying out a targeted nighttime raid that resulted in the arrest of Maduro and Flores. The Venezuelan leader, who had been facing serious allegations including drug trafficking and weapons charges, was subsequently flown to New York to stand trial.
Images released by US authorities showed Maduro restrained aboard a naval vessel in the Caribbean, underscoring the dramatic nature of the operation. Former US President Donald Trump later claimed he monitored the mission closely from his residence in Florida, describing it as a decisive action against what he termed a long-standing threat.
Inside Venezuela, the political landscape shifted rapidly. Opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado declared that the country had entered a new phase, describing the moment as the arrival of freedom. She urged that the opposition’s candidate from the 2024 election should immediately take charge of the presidency to lead a transition.
However, Trump dismissed speculation about Machado assuming leadership, stating that she lacked sufficient domestic backing. As uncertainty grips the nation, concerns remain over governance, public order and economic stability.
Amid the turmoil, India’s position underscored restraint and diplomacy, emphasising that the priority should remain the protection of civilians and a peaceful resolution that safeguards regional stability.
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