'Matter of deep concern': MEA reacts to US strikes on Venezuela; urges restraint, calls for dialogue

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs on Sunday reiterated India’s support for the safety and well-being of people in Venezuela as the situation in the country remains tense amid US strikes.

"Recent developments in Venezuela are a matter of deep concern. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation," the MEA said in a statement.




"We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region. The Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance," it added.

Also read | Drugs, oil, illegal immigration: Why Donald Trump ordered Venezuela strikes; what we know so far
This comes after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured in Caracas and flown out of the country in a joint operation involving intelligence agencies and US law enforcement, triggering heightened tensions and uncertainty.

The ministry of external affairs had earlier advised Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela amid the unfolding developments.

Donald Trump said that Maduro and Flores, captured during what he described as a US military operation, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges of alleged "drug trafficking and narco-terrorism conspiracies" and will face trial.

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Meanwhile, Venezuela’s Supreme Court has directed Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to assume charge as interim president. Rodriguez, 56, is a senior figure in Venezuela’s socialist leadership and a close ally of Maduro. She has previously served as vice president, finance minister and oil minister, and has played a central role in economic decision-making as the country grappled with US sanctions and surging inflation.
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