The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep concern over the rapidly escalating political and security crisis in Venezuela, following a dramatic military intervention by the United States that reportedly led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and targeted strikes on the nation’s capital, Caracas.
In a statement released late Sunday, ECOWAS urged the international community to uphold the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, warning that recent developments pose a serious threat to global peace and the international rules-based order.
“ECOWAS calls on all parties to respect the independence and territorial integrity of Venezuela,” the bloc said, while expressing solidarity with the Venezuelan people “as they shape the future of their country through an inclusive and peaceful process.”
Controversial US Operation
Over the weekend, United States forces reportedly captured President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during a coordinated military operation that included air and ground strikes in parts of Caracas. Several international legal experts and political analysts have since described the operation as highly controversial and potentially unlawful under international law.
According to US officials, the Venezuelan leader and his wife were transferred to New York City and are currently being held in a federal detention facility in Brooklyn. They are expected to face multiple charges, including alleged involvement in international drug trafficking networks and acts linked to terrorism.
The operation has triggered intense diplomatic backlash, with critics questioning both the legality of the arrest and the broader implications of a foreign power forcibly detaining a sitting head of state.
Trump Signals Control Over Venezuela’s Oil
In remarks following the operation, US President confirmed that Washington intends to take temporary control of Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, describing the move as necessary to “stabilise the country” and protect global energy markets.
President Trump further stated that the United States would oversee Venezuela’s governance “for the time being,” a declaration that has alarmed governments and multilateral institutions across the world.
Venezuela possesses the largest proven oil reserves globally, and control over its energy resources has long been a source of geopolitical tension, particularly between Washington and Caracas.
ECOWAS Emphasises International Law
While acknowledging the responsibility of states to combat transnational crimes, ECOWAS stressed that such efforts must not violate established international norms.
“ECOWAS recognises the right of states to fight international crimes,” the statement read, “but this must be done in strict adherence to international law, particularly Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter, which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.”
Article 2(4) remains one of the foundational pillars of international law and has been cited repeatedly in past disputes involving military interventions and regime change.
Alignment With African Union
The West African bloc also aligned its position with that of the , which has called for restraint, dialogue, and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The African Union has emphasised the need for engagement “including among Venezuelans themselves,” underscoring the importance of domestic dialogue rather than externally imposed solutions.
Diplomatic observers note that Africa’s unified stance reflects growing concern among Global South nations over perceived double standards in the enforcement of international law.
Global Reactions and Uncertainty
The situation in Venezuela continues to generate widespread international reaction, with several governments demanding clarity on the legal basis of the US operation and the future political direction of the country.
Human rights organisations have also raised concerns about civilian safety following the military strikes on Caracas, while humanitarian agencies warn that further instability could worsen the already fragile living conditions for millions of Venezuelans.
Inside Venezuela, uncertainty looms as political institutions face disruption and questions arise over interim governance, national security, and control of strategic assets.
Call for De-escalation
ECOWAS concluded its statement by urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint and prioritise diplomatic engagement over military action.
“The use of force must never replace dialogue,” the bloc said, calling on the United Nations and other international partners to intensify efforts toward a peaceful, lawful, and inclusive resolution to the crisis.
As the world watches developments unfold, analysts warn that how the Venezuela situation is handled could set a far-reaching precedent for international relations, sovereignty, and the future of multilateralism.
Follow Africa Live News for more updates:
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@africalivenews
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africalivenews
- X (Twitter): https://x.com/africalivenews2
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Africalivenews
