The Economic Community of West African States has voiced unease over the unfolding political crisis in Venezuela, urging calm, respect for sovereignty and inclusive dialogue among Venezuelans.
In a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, January 4, ECOWAS said it was closely tracking developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela amid rising global tensions.
“ECOWAS has followed with concern recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,” the Commission said.
While acknowledging the responsibility of states to confront cross-border crimes, the regional bloc cautioned that such efforts must not undermine international law.
“While it recognises the right of states to fight international crimes, including terrorism and drug trafficking, ECOWAS wishes to remind the international community of its obligation to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, as enshrined in international law, especially Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter,” the statement said.
ECOWAS said its stance aligns with the African Union’s position on the crisis, referencing an AU statement issued a day earlier.
“ECOWAS fully aligns itself with the statement issued by the African Union on January 3, 2026, which calls for restraint and inclusive dialogue among the people of Venezuela,” it said.
Reiterating its solidarity with Venezuelans, the bloc appealed to all countries to respect the nation’s independence.
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“ECOWAS reiterates its solidarity with the people of Venezuela and urges all states to respect the independence and territorial integrity of Venezuela,” the Commission said.
It stressed that Venezuela’s future should be shaped through peaceful and inclusive processes.
“The Community expresses its support for the people of Venezuela as they shape the future of their country through an inclusive process,” the statement said.
The intervention follows a United States military operation ordered by President Donald Trump, during which Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were arrested at their Caracas residence and flown to the US.
US authorities said Maduro would “face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts”.
According to US Attorney General Pam Bondi, the former leader has been indicted in New York on drug trafficking and weapons charges.
In the aftermath of Maduro’s removal, Venezuela’s supreme court appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim president.
In a ruling delivered late Saturday, the court said Rodríguez would assume executive authority temporarily while it reviews the legal framework required to govern in Maduro’s absence and preserve national sovereignty.