PH call for restraint, other countries condemn Maduro ouster
The Philippines called for restraint on both the United States and Venezuela over the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday stated that it is concerned about the "evolving events in Venezuela and their consequential impact on peace and stability in the region as well as on the rules-based international order."
They said that while the country respects America's move in view of security considerations, international law must be honored.
"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," it said, calling 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, including the Filipinos living in Venezuela and the surrounding countries," the statement concluded.
World leaders react
As reported by Agence France-Presse, other countries have also expressed their sentiments on the issue that has since become a global concern.
"Respecting the will of the Venezuelan people remains the only way for Venezuela to restore democracy and resolve the current crisis," the European Union said Sunday, November 4, in a statement shared by 26 member states except Hungary.
Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign affairs chief, also called for "calm and restraint by all actors, to avoid escalation and to ensure a peaceful solution to the crisis."
In a statement, Spain, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Uruguay have jointly "rejected" the U.S. military attack and the country's bid for control over Venezuela.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called the U.S. move "an intervention which violates international law."
North Korea also denounced the capture of Maduro, saying it is a "serious encroachment of sovereignty."
"The incident is another example that clearly confirms once again the rogue and brutal nature of the US," a Pyongyang foreign ministry spokesperson said.
Reuters reported that the U.S. forces attacked Venezuela and seized Maduro, who has been widely condemned as an illegitimate leader, and his wife Cilia Flores.
This follows months-long pressure by U.S. President Donald Trump, urging Maduro to give up power while accusing him of supporting drug cartels designated by Washington as terror groups.
Thousands of Venezuelans around the world celebrated the move, while U.S. legislators and other countries are questioning the legality of the military attack.
