US strikes in Venezuela: Jaishankar expresses India's concern; urges nations to prioritise people’s safety

NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the safety of people in Venezuela is India’s primary concern amid the crisis following US military operations in the country and the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.Speaking in Luxembourg, Jaishankar urged all parties involved in the crisis to sit down and reach a position that serves the well-being of the people of Venezuela. “I think we put out a statement yesterday, so I would urge you to look at it. Obviously, what happened—if I can sum up the statement—is that we are concerned about the developments, but we would really urge all the parties involved to now sit down and come to a position which is in the interest of the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela, because at the end of the day, that is our concern,” Jaishankar said.“We would want Venezuela as a country with whom, over many, many years, we’ve had very good relations. So we would like the people to come out well, whatever the direction of events,” he added.This comes after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured in Caracas and flown out of the country on Saturday in a joint operation involving intelligence agencies and US law enforcement.Subsequently, the ministry of external affairs 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 in 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.