The act of detaining Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife by a United States (US) military operation in Caracas is a clear violation of international law according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar has called for the immediate release of the Venezuelan President and his wife and called it an act of force against a sovereign nation.
Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores
According to him, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, must be released immediately, while warning that removing a head of government through foreign intervention is an inappropriate action.
“It erodes the balance of power among nations and undermines the legal structure that supports the international order.”
“It is up to the people of Venezuela to determine their political future. History has shown that leadership changes through foreign intervention cause more harm than good, especially in a country that has long struggled with economic problems and social tensions,” he said in a Facebook post expressing concern over the latest developments in Venezuela.
Anwar warns against foreign intervention following US action in Venezuela
Anwar Ibrahim
Anwar stated that Malaysia always respects international law and sovereignty as the main foundation for good relations between nations.
“Constructive engagement, dialogue and de-escalation remain the most credible path towards an outcome that protects civilians and allows Venezuelans to pursue their legitimate aspirations without further harm,” he said.
The United States recently carried out a major military strike on Venezuela on 3 January, 2026, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. They were flown to New York to face charges including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
Stay tuned for more updates.