Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed Canada’s support for the Venezuelan people’s right to determine their future in a peaceful and democratic manner. Carney stated that Canada has not recognized Nicolás Maduro’s regime since the disputed 2018 election. He emphasized Canada’s backing for a peaceful transition in Venezuela led by its citizens and respecting their democratic will.
Following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of capturing Maduro, Carney reiterated Canada’s stance for freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity for Venezuelans. He called for all parties to abide by international law. Trump declared a successful strike against Venezuela, which led to Maduro’s capture, triggering explosions and military activity in Caracas.
Global Affairs Canada confirmed no reports of Canadian casualties in the attacks and advised Canadians in Venezuela to contact the Canadian Embassy in Bogota, as the embassy in Venezuela has been closed since 2019. The U.S. Attorney General announced indictments against Maduro and his wife, with plans for legal action in New York.
While Trump outlined plans for a transitional period in Venezuela, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand echoed Canada’s refusal to recognize Maduro’s regime and its repression. The U.S.’s direct involvement in Latin America marked a significant intervention since the Panama invasion in 1989. Opposition parties in Canada had mixed reactions, with some celebrating Maduro’s capture and others condemning the U.S.’s actions.
The Bloc Québécois urged the U.S. to respect international law and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of multilateral approaches. The Green Party criticized the strikes on Venezuela and the capture of Maduro, denouncing it as a breach of international law. Canada remains committed to supporting Venezuelans and upholding democracy, urging a peaceful resolution through international cooperation.