In the wake of escalating tensions in Venezuela following the extraction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife by the United States, India has voiced its concerns and called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking in Luxembourg on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of the Venezuelan people.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on Sunday, expressing "deep concern" over the recent developments and confirming that the Indian embassy in Caracas is in contact with the Indian community, ready to provide any needed assistance. The Indian government has also advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Venezuela, urging those present to exercise extreme caution, limit their movements, and maintain close contact with the embassy, especially given the reported US missile strikes.
Jaishankar highlighted India's long-standing positive relationship with Venezuela, reiterating the need for all parties to collaborate in protecting the interests of the Venezuelan people. He pointed out that countries today often act primarily in their own self-interest while still offering advice to others. This statement comes amidst condemnation from global leftist leaders and guarded responses from Washington's allies in Europe, Asia, and South America. Russia, Colombia, Cuba, and Mexico have rejected the US military action, with Moscow expressing "deep concern and condemnation". China has also condemned the US action as a violation of international law and Venezuela's sovereignty.
India's response to the Venezuelan crisis reflects a commitment to non-intervention and peaceful resolution, with an emphasis on the welfare of the Venezuelan population. This approach aligns with India's broader foreign policy principles, even as geopolitical tensions rise between the US and BRICS nations.
The current crisis has brought to light the delicate balance India must maintain between its economic interests, its relationship with Russia, and its stance on US foreign policy. Venezuela holds significant geopolitical importance due to its oil reserves, but India's economic ties have been strained by US sanctions and internal challenges within Venezuela. Bilateral trade between the two countries has fluctuated, with a sharp decline following the imposition of US sanctions in 2019, which led India to significantly reduce its oil imports from Venezuela.
Looking ahead, analysts suggest that a potential easing of sanctions by the US could offer India an opportunity to recover outstanding payments and enhance its energy security. However, the future stability and production capacity of Venezuela's oil industry remain uncertain due to years of underinvestment and economic crisis. In the interim, India continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for dialogue and prioritizing the well-being of the Venezuelan people.
