New Delhi: India on Sunday expressed “deep concern” over the United States’ military assault on Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by American forces, urging all parties to resolve the situation through dialogue and maintain regional stability. This marks India’s first formal response since the unprecedented attack, which has drawn widespread condemnation from Latin American countries and global powers.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated India’s concern for the safety and well-being of the people of Venezuela. “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. The MEA also confirmed that the Indian embassy in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance.

Advisory for Indians in Venezuela

India had earlier issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela and advised those already in the country to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements, and maintain contact with the Indian embassy. According to the ministry, around 50 non-resident Indians and 30 people of Indian origin are currently in Venezuela.

Details of the US Assault

The Trump administration launched airstrikes on Caracas early on Saturday and captured Maduro and his wife, flying them to New York state, where Maduro has been indicted on drug and weapons charges. The capture followed months of US pressure on the Venezuelan government, including seizures of oil tankers and attacks on alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean. The United States has conducted more than 20 air strikes in waters near Venezuela since September 2025.

President Donald Trump stated that the US would administer Venezuela “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition” and indicated that major American oil companies would enter the country to rebuild the “badly broken” oil infrastructure. Critics argue that the US actions were motivated by Venezuela’s oil reserves, estimated at 303 billion barrels—roughly one-fifth of global reserves.

Venezuela declared a national emergency in response to the attacks, denouncing them as “extremely serious military aggression” and appealing to the international community for support.

Global Reactions

The US military operation drew sharp criticism from multiple countries. Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned the attacks, stating that such actions “crossed an unacceptable line” and warned against a world governed by the law of the strongest.

China’s foreign ministry described the operation as “hegemonic behaviour” that violates international law and threatens peace in Latin America and the Caribbean. Beijing called for strict adherence to the UN Charter and respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty.

Russia condemned the armed aggression and emphasised the need to prevent further escalation, urging all parties to resolve the crisis through dialogue. Moscow also labelled the capture of Maduro and his wife as an unacceptable violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.

France similarly criticised the US operation, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stating that “the military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro violates the principle of not resorting to force, which underpins international law,” and reaffirming that only the Venezuelan people can decide their own future.

India’s Position

India has maintained a neutral stance, expressing concern for civilian safety and the rule of law. The MEA said that it is closely monitoring developments and continues to prioritize the protection of its citizens in Venezuela. The statement underscores India’s longstanding support for peaceful dialogue and multilateralism in resolving international conflicts.

The situation remains fluid, with the US asserting temporary administrative control over Venezuela and multiple nations calling for restraint and adherence to international norms. India’s call for dialogue reflects its emphasis on stability, respect for sovereignty, and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.