Manila has flagged diplomatic concerns following reports that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured during a United States military operation carried out in Caracas, marking a significant development in Venezuela’s political crisis.
The Department of Foreign Affairs addressed the situation in a statement released Monday, framing the Philippines’ position around long-standing norms governing relations between states. While recognizing that Washington acted on what it described as security considerations, the DFA emphasized that such actions must still be measured against established international rules.
“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,” the department said.
The DFA also appealed for de-escalation amid fears of wider instability, urging all sides involved to act within legal frameworks recognized by the international community.
“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,” it added.
