The incident took place over the weekend.
In its statement on Monday, January 5, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed the Philippines’ stance on the recent actions done by the United States of America in Venezuela last Saturday, January 3.
On that day, American forces launched an operation in Caracas and other towns to arrest and take custody of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro and his wife, who are both facing drug-related charges in the US.
President Donald Trump has since said that his country will administer the Venezuelan government, while Acting President Delcy Rodriguez had already been sworn in soon after Maduro’s arrest.
In line with these developments, the DFA said: “The Philippines views with concern the evolving events in Venezuela and their consequential impact on peace and stability in the region as well as on the rules-based international order.“
“While acknowledging the United States’ underlying security considerations, the Philippines stresses the relevant principles of international law, including the independence and sovereign equality of states, the peaceful resolution of disputes, the prohibition against the threat or use of force, and non-interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign states,” it continued.
Lastly, “The Philippines calls on concerned parties to respect international law, including the UN Charter, exercise restraint to prevent escalation of conflict, restore peace and order in Venezuela and promote the safety and well-being of all the people, including the Filipinos living in Venezuela and the surrounding countries.”
