External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking from Luxembourg on January 7, articulated India’s grave worries regarding the Venezuela situation triggered by the US capture of President Nicolas Maduro. He made a fervent plea for all factions to focus on protecting ordinary Venezuelans through constructive engagement.
During the event, Jaishankar remarked, ‘Recent events have us deeply concerned. We implore every party to negotiate a path forward centered on the security and welfare of Venezuela’s people – that’s the heart of our position.’
Reflecting on bilateral history, he added, ‘India and Venezuela share a robust partnership spanning years. We earnestly hope the Venezuelan populace emerges secure and prosperous from whatever direction these events take.’
Background to the turmoil: On January 3, US forces executed ‘Operation Absolute Resolve,’ detaining Maduro and his wife. Transferred to New York custody, Maduro appeared in court Monday, with Delcy Rodriguez assuming interim leadership in Caracas amid chaos.
The MEA had preemptively stated its concerns: ‘Venezuela’s latest developments cause significant unease. We’re closely watching and assisting our community via the Caracas embassy with every aid possible.’
Further, ‘India confirms support for Venezuelan safety and calls for dialogue-driven peaceful settlements to foster regional peace and steadiness,’ the ministry affirmed.
Jaishankar’s words resonate in international forums, positioning India as a voice for moderation. With Maduro’s fate uncertain and tensions high, the emphasis on talks could pave the way for de-escalation, though challenges persist in uniting divided parties.