India expressed “deep worry” on Sunday over the US military action that resulted in the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his spouse, and it urged a peaceful settlement to maintain regional stability.
India reacts to US military action in Venezuela
New Delhi also reiterated its support for the welfare of the people of the oil-rich South American nation and said that it is keeping a careful eye on the events that are taking place in the capital city of Caracas, Venezuela, in its first response to the historic American intervention there early on Saturday.
Maduro and his spouse, Lady Cilia Flores, were taken to New York by the United States to be charged with narcotics trafficking. Venezuela has declared a state of emergency in protest of the US move.
MEA expresses concern and calls for stability
“Recent events in Venezuela are quite concerning. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “We are keeping a careful eye on the changing scenario.” “India reaffirms its support to the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela,” the statement said.
Additionally, New Delhi urged “all parties to ensure peace and stability of the area by addressing concerns amicably via discussion.”
US allegations and global reactions
After repeatedly accusing Maduro of being engaged in drug trafficking, the US launched the military attack on Caracas. The Venezuelan leader has vehemently refuted the accusations.
The majority of Latin American nations and a number of powerful nations, including as China, Brazil, and Russia, denounced the United States for its military action in Caracas. The MEA stated in a succinct statement that the Indian embassy in Caracas has spoken with members of the Indian community and would keep doing all in its power to support them.
Advisory issued for Indian citizens
India warned its citizens on Saturday night to stay away from any unnecessary trips to Venezuela and to be very cautious while they are there. “Indian citizens are strongly advised to avoid any non-essential travel to Venezuela in light of recent events in Venezuela,” the MEA said.
“All Indians who are in Venezuela for whatever reason are asked to exercise great care, limit their movements, and keep in communication with the Embassy of India in Caracas,” the statement said. The Caracas embassy estimates that there are around 30 PIOs (people of Indian ancestry) and 50 NRIs (non-resident Indians) in Venezuela.
US position on governance in Venezuela
US President Donald Trump said at a press conference that his nation would govern Venezuela until a transfer of power is possible after the flight of Maduro and his spouse from Caracas. Trump said, “We are going to govern the nation until such time as we can make a safe, appropriate, and sensible transfer.”
The “very effective” operation, according to the US president, should serve as a deterrent to anybody who would jeopardize American lives or harm American sovereignty.
International condemnation intensifies
After launching a months-long military assault against Venezuela’s oil ships and attacking boats that Washington said were associated with a drug gang, the US was able to apprehend Maduro.
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the president of Brazil, responded by calling the US assaults on Venezuela and Maduro’s abduction a “flagrant breach of international law”.
China and Russia demand release
He said, “The first step toward a world of violence, anarchy, and instability, where the law of the strongest wins over multilateralism, is attacking nations, in blatant violation of international law.” China emphasized the need for diplomacy to settle disputes and requested that the US free Maduro and his spouse.
“Such hegemonic activities of the US significantly violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, and jeopardize peace and security in Latin America and the Caribbean area,” the Chinese foreign ministry said. Russia “strongly” called on the United States to free the president of Venezuela.
Political developments inside Venezuela
The Supreme Court of Venezuela has requested that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez serve as the nation’s acting president. In February of last year, Rodriguez traveled to New Delhi to take part in India Energy Week.
India–Venezuela bilateral relations
Venezuela and India have a long history of cordial ties. Hugo Chavez’s State Visit to India in March 2005 gave the bilateral relationship a significant boost. In the energy sector, the two nations enjoy strong collaboration.
ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) of India and Corporacion Venezolana del Petroleo (CVP) are partners in a joint venture. The OVL has a 40% share in the joint venture, “PetroleraIndovenezolana SA,” which is responsible for the exploration and production of oil in the San Cristobal field. The Indian embassy claims that the OVL has invested almost USD 200 million in the project.
