Ottawa – Prime Minister Mark Carney affirmed Canada’s support for the Venezuelan people’s right to choose their future after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro early Saturday. The U.S. action follows accusations of election theft and repression by the Maduro regime.

Canada’s Official Response

Carney stated that Canada has not recognized Maduro’s regime since the contested 2018 election. He communicated this via social media Saturday evening.

“Canada has not recognised the illegitimate regime of [Nicolás] Maduro since it stole the 2018 election,” Carney said. “The Canadian government therefore welcomes the opportunity for freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity for the Venezuelan people.

Carney added that Canada supports a peaceful, Venezuelan-led transition that respects the democratic will of the people. He called on all parties to respect international law.

U.S. Action and Allegations

President Donald Trump announced the capture of Maduro on Saturday morning, calling it a “large-scale strike.” Multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft were reported in Caracas.

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York. Trump told reporters the U.S. will “run” Venezuela until a safe transition can occur.

Canadian Citizen Safety

Global Affairs Canada stated that it is unaware of any reports of Canadians injured in the attacks. The agency urged citizens in Venezuela needing assistance to contact the Canadian Embassy in Bogota, Colombia, as the Venezuelan embassy has been closed since 2019.

Political Reactions in Canada

Canadian political parties offered differing reactions to the U.S. action.

• Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre congratulated Trump, calling Maduro a “narco-terrorist and socialist dictator.”
• NDP Interim Leader Don Davies condemned the U.S. action as illegal and a breach of UN covenants.
• Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet expressed concern that the U.S. is disregarding international law.
• The Green Party condemned the strikes and Maduro’s “kidnapping” as violations of international law.

Canada’s Stance on International Law

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand echoed Carney’s sentiments, stating Canada has refused to recognize the Maduro regime’s legitimacy. She said Canada stands by the Venezuelan people’s desire for a peaceful and democratic society.

“In keeping with our long-standing commitment to upholding the rule of law and democracy, Canada calls on all parties to respect international law and we stand by the people of Venezuela and their desire to live in a peaceful and democratic society,” Anand added.

Carney stated Canada is in close contact with international partners. He said Canada is ready to assist Canadians through consular officials and support Venezuelan refugees.

Why This Matters

The capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces marks a significant escalation in the Venezuelan crisis. Canada’s response, emphasizing self-determination and international law, reflects a nuanced position amidst a complex geopolitical situation. The divided reactions from Canadian political parties highlight the varying perspectives on the role of international intervention and the future of Venezuela.