India voices concern over US action in Venezuela

India on Sunday voiced “deep concern” over the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in a military operation and called for a peaceful resolution of issues to ensure stability in the region.
In its first reaction to the unprecedented American action in Caracas, New Delhi reaffirmed its support for the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela and said it was closely monitoring the unfolding developments.
“Recent developments in Venezuela are a matter of deep concern. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. “India reaffirms its support to the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela.”
India also urged all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue to ensure peace and stability in the region. The US brought Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, to New York to face drug trafficking-related charges, an action Venezuela strongly denounced while announcing a state of national emergency. Maduro has consistently denied the allegations.
Several Latin American countries and major powers, including Russia, Brazil and China, criticised the US military operation in Caracas.
The MEA said the Indian embassy in Caracas has been in touch with members of the Indian community and would continue to provide all possible assistance.
On Saturday night, India advised its nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela and urged those already there to exercise extreme caution, restrict movements and remain in contact with the Indian embassy. According to the Indian embassy in Caracas, around 50 non-resident Indians and 30 persons of Indian origin currently reside in Venezuela.