African Union and Member States React to U.S. Intervention in Venezuela

The African Union (AU), along with several countries including Ghana, Uganda, and South Africa, has expressed significant concern over the recent U.S. intervention in Venezuela. This situation escalated when U.S. authorities seized President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, as part of an indictment involving drug and weapon charges.

In an official statement, the AU stated it would be “following with grave concern the recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.” The organization highlighted reports regarding the alleged abduction of President Maduro and military interventions against Venezuelan institutions. The AU emphasized the importance of dialogue and a peaceful resolution of disputes, advocating for respect toward constitutional and institutional frameworks within the context of international cooperation and peaceful coexistence.

Ghana’s response mirrored the sentiments expressed by the AU. Officials criticized President Donald Trump’s assertion that the U.S. would “run” Venezuela until a “safe, proper and judicious transition” could occur. Ghanaian representatives deemed this language reminiscent of colonial and imperialist eras, warning that it sets a troubling precedent in international relations.

South Africa’s government spokesperson noted that the U.S. action amounted to a “manifest violation” of the United Nations Charter, which mandates member states to safeguard the territorial integrity of other nations. This statement underscores growing unease among African nations regarding perceived overreaches of power by Western countries.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni remarked that the arrest of Maduro should serve as a wake-up call for Africa to enhance its strategic security across various domains, including land, sea, air, and space. His comments reflect a broader desire among African leaders to pursue greater autonomy and security in the face of external interventions.

In a contrasting view, Nigeria’s opposition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), criticized their government for its slow reaction to the alarming developments in Venezuela. They voiced support for the U.S. actions, interpreting them as a “clear warning” to governments that lack legitimacy, highlighting the complex landscape of opinions within African nations regarding foreign interventions.

The unfolding events in Venezuela raise critical questions about sovereignty, international law, and the role of external powers in resolving internal disputes. As the AU continues to monitor the situation, it highlights a collective aspiration among African leaders for dialogues rooted in respect and mutual understanding in international relations.

By Omer Aden
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.