India has articulated significant apprehension regarding the dramatic escalation in Venezuela, triggered by a large-scale United States military operation on January 3, 2026, that culminated in the capture and extraction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from Caracas, emphasizing the imperative for de-escalation and diplomatic resolution.
The Ministry of External Affairs, in its official statement released on January 4, 2026, characterized the unfolding developments as a "matter of deep concern," while confirming that Indian authorities are vigilantly monitoring the fluid situation in the South American nation, which possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves and has been mired in political and economic turmoil for years.
New Delhi explicitly reaffirmed its commitment to the well-being and safety of the Venezuelan populace, urging all stakeholders to prioritize peaceful mechanisms, stating: "We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region," reflecting India's longstanding advocacy for non-violent solutions in international disputes.
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The Indian Embassy in Caracas has maintained continuous communication with the Indian diaspora in Venezuela, including non-resident Indians and persons of Indian origin, assuring comprehensive support and assistance during this period of heightened uncertainty and potential instability.
In a precautionary measure, the Ministry issued a separate travel advisory on January 3, strongly recommending that Indian nationals refrain from all non-essential travel to Venezuela, while advising those currently in the country to remain vigilant, limit movements, and register with the embassy for emergency coordination.
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