New Delhi: India on Sunday expressed “deep concern” over the rapidly unfolding developments in Venezuela following a dramatic US military operation that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said New Delhi was closely monitoring the situation and urged all stakeholders to prioritise peace, dialogue and regional stability.
In an official statement issued a day after the operation, the MEA emphasised India’s concern for the safety and well-being of the Venezuelan people amid the escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.
“India reaffirms its support to the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela. We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region,” the statement said.
India monitoring situation closely
The MEA said India’s diplomatic mission in Caracas has been actively engaging with members of the Indian community residing in Venezuela to ensure their safety.
“The Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance,” the ministry added.
India has traditionally maintained a cautious and balanced approach to developments in Latin America, advocating non-interference, respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of conflicts through diplomatic means. Officials indicated that New Delhi is assessing the evolving situation carefully, given its implications for regional stability and international relations.
US operation topples Maduro government
The Indian statement came in the backdrop of a major escalation in US-Venezuela tensions, culminating in a US military operation late Saturday night. According to US officials, American special forces conducted a “textbook” nighttime airborne raid in Caracas, capturing President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.
The operation followed months of threats, pressure tactics and sanctions by Washington against the left-wing Venezuelan leader. US President Donald Trump later confirmed that Maduro had been taken into US custody and would face trial in New York on charges related to drugs and weapons trafficking.
Trump shared a photograph on his social media platform, Truth Social, showing Maduro handcuffed and blindfolded aboard a US naval ship in the Caribbean. From there, Maduro and Flores were flown to New York, officials said.
End of a 12-year rule
The capture of Maduro effectively brought an end to his 12-year rule over Venezuela, a period marked by deep economic crisis, international sanctions and political unrest. The US had earlier placed a bounty of $50 million on Maduro’s head, accusing him of running a narco-state and collaborating with criminal networks.
Trump claimed he personally followed the operation live from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. “It was like I was watching a television show,” he said, describing the military action as swift and decisive.
US officials stated that the operation was aimed at restoring democracy in Venezuela and dismantling what they described as an authoritarian regime responsible for widespread corruption and human rights abuses.
Opposition celebrates, calls for transition
Venezuela’s opposition leaders reacted swiftly to the dramatic turn of events. Nobel Peace Prize laureate and opposition figure Maria Corina Machado took to social media to declare that the country’s “hour of freedom has arrived”.
Machado called for the opposition’s candidate from the disputed 2024 presidential election to immediately assume office, signalling a push for a rapid political transition.
Seen as a symbol of resistance by many Venezuelans, Machado has long opposed Maduro’s rule and rallied international support against his government. Her comments were echoed by several opposition groups, who urged the armed forces and civil institutions to support a peaceful transfer of power.
Trump downplays Machado’s leadership role
However, President Trump appeared to dismiss speculation that Machado herself would emerge as Venezuela’s next leader. Responding to questions from the media, Trump said she did not have “support or respect” within Venezuela, a remark that sparked debate among analysts and observers.
Political experts said the transition period ahead could be fraught with uncertainty, as Venezuela grapples with internal divisions, economic collapse and the challenge of rebuilding institutions after years of political turmoil.
Global reactions and regional implications
The US operation has drawn sharp reactions from across the world, with some countries expressing concern over the use of military force and others cautiously welcoming the prospect of political change in Venezuela. Analysts warned that the situation could have far-reaching consequences for Latin America, given Venezuela’s strategic importance and alliances.
India’s response, emphasising peace, dialogue and the safety of civilians, aligns with its long-standing diplomatic position of avoiding endorsement of regime change through force.
Conclusion
As Venezuela enters an uncertain new phase following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, India has signalled its concern for the humanitarian and political implications of the crisis. By calling for peaceful dialogue and stability, New Delhi has underscored the need for restraint and diplomacy at a time when global attention remains firmly fixed on the developments in Caracas and their wider impact on regional and international order.