India Expresses Concern Over Recent Events in Venezuela
India's Stance on Venezuela's Political Turmoil
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has voiced India's apprehension regarding the recent developments in Venezuela, where the United States conducted airstrikes over the weekend, capturing former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. During an event in Luxembourg, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of finding a resolution that serves the interests of the Venezuelan populace.
He remarked, "I believe we issued a statement yesterday (Monday), and I encourage you to review it. To summarize our concerns regarding the events, we urge all involved parties to come together and reach a consensus that prioritizes the welfare and safety of the Venezuelan people. Ultimately, that is our primary concern."
Jaishankar further stated, "We view Venezuela as a nation with which we have maintained a strong relationship for many years. Regardless of how events unfold, we hope for the well-being of its citizens."
India's Official Statement and Advisory
In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern over the recent occurrences in Venezuela, assuring that the government is closely monitoring the evolving situation. "India reaffirms its support for the welfare and safety of the Venezuelan people. We call upon all relevant parties to resolve issues through peaceful dialogue and ensure stability in the region," the statement read. The Indian embassy in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide necessary assistance.
The government has also issued an advisory urging all Indian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Venezuela amid rising tensions. It has advised citizens in Venezuela to exercise extreme caution and limit their movements within the country.
Capture of Maduro and Legal Proceedings
In a dramatic operation on January 3, U.S. Delta Force conducted airstrikes in Caracas, capturing Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their residence in a military compound. They were taken to the U.S., where Washington has charged them with drug-related offenses, including narco-terrorism.
During a court appearance in New York on Monday, the 63-year-old Maduro denied the charges, claiming he was captured and "kidnapped." He asserted that he remains the legitimate leader of Venezuela and declared himself a prisoner of war.
He stated, "I am an honest man, (I am) the president of my country. I am innocent. I am not guilty of anything mentioned here." Flores also insisted that she is "not guilty" of the accusations and is "completely innocent."
Charges Against Maduro
Maduro faces four charges: narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, and possession of machine guns and dangerous devices. Authorities allege that he coordinated cocaine trafficking with groups such as Mexico's Sinaloa and Zetas cartels, Colombian FARC rebels, and Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang.
The allegations also claim that Maduro has ties to powerful international criminal organizations and has allegedly utilized government resources for drug trafficking operations. The 63-year-old has consistently denied these accusations, reiterating that "these are a facade to conceal imperialist ambitions over Venezuela's oil reserves."
Since Maduro's election victory in 2018, which was marred by widespread allegations of electoral fraud, the U.S. has long regarded him as an illegitimate dictator. Federal prosecutors in New York first charged Maduro in 2020, and an updated indictment released on January 3 included new charges and co-defendants, including his wife, Cilia Flores.
Prosecutors claim that Maduro's alleged criminal activities began during his tenure in the Venezuelan National Assembly in 2000 and continued during his roles as foreign minister and president after succeeding his mentor, Hugo Chávez, in 2013.