EU calls for respect for will of Venezuelan people and international law

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said this in a statement supported by 26 EU member states with the exception of Hungary, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The statement "calls for calm and restraint by all actors, to avoid escalation and to ensure a peaceful solution to the crisis."

"The EU recalls that, under all circumstances, the principles of international law and the UN Charter must be upheld," Kallas said, adding that members of the United Nations Security Council have a particular responsibility to uphold those principles, as a pillar of the international security architecture.

She reiterated the EU's position that Nicolas Maduro lacks the legitimacy of a democratically elected president, adding that the EU has advocated for a Venezuelan-led peaceful transition to democracy in the country, respectful of its sovereignty.

"The right of the Venezuelan people to determine their future must be respected," Kallas said.

She also noted that the EU shares the priority of combating transnational organized crime and drug trafficking, which pose a significant security threat worldwide.

"At the same time, the EU stresses that these challenges must be addressed through sustained cooperation in full respect of international law and the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty," she wrote.

According to Kallas, the European Union "is in close contact with the United States, as well as regional and international partners to support and facilitate dialogue with all parties involved, leading to a negotiated, democratic, inclusive and peaceful solution to the crisis, led by Venezuelans."

Kallas stressed that respecting the will of the Venezuelan people remains the only way for Venezuela to restore democracy and resolve the current crisis.

"At this critical time, it is essential that all actors fully respect human rights and international humanitarian law. All political prisoners currently detained in Venezuela must be unconditionally released," she said.

Kallas added that EU Member States' consular authorities are working in close coordination in order to protect the safety of EU citizens, including those illegally detained in Venezuela.

As was earlier reported, the United States carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela, after which President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were captured and flown out of the country.

Subsequently, U.S. President Donald Trump said that interim governance of Venezuela would be handled by senior U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Rubio and Defense Secretary Hegseth, together with their team.