Croatian MFA: Maduro regime lacks democratic legitimacy
The Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs said on Saturday that it is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela, where US forces earlier captured Nicolás Maduro, adding that the Venezuelan president did not hold democratic legitimacy, CE Report informs.
"The situation in Venezuela has for many years been marked by a deep political, economic, and institutional crisis, reflected in the severely impaired functioning of state institutions, economic decline, violations of human rights, and a serious humanitarian crisis that has triggered mass migration of the population. The regime of Nicolás Maduro has lacked legitimacy derived from democratically conducted elections. Deep internal political divisions, as well as differing approaches of the international community toward the authorities in Caracas, have further complicated an already complex situation in the country.
The United States has for some time been making serious allegations against Nicolás Maduro and certain members of the Venezuelan state leadership, including claims of links to organized crime, drug trafficking, and violations of international sanctions regimes. These allegations are part of a broader political and legal dispute between the United States and the authorities in Venezuela and have so far been the subject of various legal and diplomatic proceedings.
We are closely monitoring the situation and, in close coordination with our partners in the European Union, will advocate for the position that the suppression of international unlawful activities must be carried out in compliance with international rules and fundamental principles, as well as with the protection of the civilian population.
Special attention is being paid to the safety and well-being of Croatian citizens staying in Venezuela, as well as Croatian expatriates in that country. We are in contact with our partners so that, if necessary, we can ensure timely and appropriate assistance and protection.
Croatian citizens currently in Venezuela may, if needed, contact the emergency duty phone of the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Brasília at +55 61 9998 85319, as well as the number of the European Union representation in Venezuela at +58 212 821 0600," said in a statement.
Photo: Croatian MFA
