Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for a 'peaceful, democratic transition' of power in Venezuela following the US military's capture of President Nicolás Maduro. In a cautious statement, Albanese said his government was 'monitoring developments' and urged all parties to support dialogue and diplomacy to secure regional stability.
Albanese noted Australia's long-held concerns about the situation in Venezuela, including the need to respect democratic principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms. He reaffirmed Australia's support for international law and a transition reflecting the will of the Venezuelan people.
The Australian government's Smartraveller website advises against travel to Venezuela due to the dangerous security situation, threat of violent crime, political and economic instability, and risk of arbitrary detention. Australia does not have an embassy in Venezuela.
Opposition leader Sussan Ley welcomed Maduro's removal, stating dictators should face justice for their crimes. However, Greens defence spokesperson David Shoebridge condemned the capture as a gross breach of international law, warning it sets a dangerous precedent of lawless aggression.
Within the Labor Party, the Labor Against War group urged Canberra to distance itself from the Trump administration, calling the action 'piracy and brazen military aggression'. The UN Security Council was due to hold an emergency meeting on Monday.
