EU statement on Venezuela
Brussels, 4 January (Hibya) – The European Union (EU) drew attention to the crisis in Venezuela following the intervention of the United States (US), calling on all parties to exercise restraint and stressing respect for the democratic process.
In a statement released by the European Union, it was noted that the position is supported by 26 EU member states: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
The statement said: “The EU calls on all actors to remain calm and show restraint in order to prevent escalation and to ensure a peaceful resolution of the crisis.”
It was also emphasized that the UN Charter and international law must be upheld at all times, and that members of the UN Security Council should pay particular attention to these principles.
Stating that Nicolás Maduro lacks democratic legitimacy, the EU said: “A peaceful democratic transition led by Venezuelans should be supported, and the country’s sovereignty must be respected.”
The statement noted the importance of combating organized crime and drug trafficking through international cooperation, while stressing that these challenges must be addressed in line with international law and with respect for states’ sovereign rights.
EU officials stated that they remain in close contact with the United States and other regional and international partners, adding: “We are working to support a negotiated, democratic, inclusive and peaceful solution led by Venezuelans.”
The statement also called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners and noted that consular authorities are working in coordination to ensure the safety of EU citizens.
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