ECOWAS Calls For Restraint, Dialogue, Respect For Venezuela’s Sovereignty After U.S. Attack

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called for restraint and inclusive dialogue following what it described as concerning recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the regional bloc said it was closely monitoring the situation.

While acknowledging the responsibility of states to combat transnational threats, ECOWAS stressed the need for such actions to be guided by international law.

While it “recognises the right of states to fight international crimes, including terrorism and drug trafficking,” the commission urged the international community to uphold the principles governing relations among sovereign nations.

It said, “ECOWAS wishes to remind the international community about their obligation to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other, as enshrined in international law, especially article 2 (4) of the United Nations Charter.”

Aligning itself with broader continental efforts, ECOWAS said it supports Africa-wide calls for calm and engagement in Venezuela.

The statement noted that “ECOWAS fully aligns itself with the statement the African Union issued on 3 January 2026, that calls for restraint and inclusive dialogue among the people of Venezuela.”

The regional bloc reaffirmed its support for Venezuela’s sovereignty and its citizens, stating that “ECOWAS reiterates its solidarity with the people of Venezuela and urges all states to respect the independence and territorial integrity of Venezuela.”

It further emphasized the role of the Venezuelan people in determining their future, adding, “It expresses support to the people as they shape the future of their country through an inclusive process.”

Earlier, the AU condemned the U.S. military strikes on Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, saying it was following the developments in the South American country with grave concern amid reports of attacks on Venezuelan institutions.

In a communiqué on the situation in Venezuela, the AU said the reported abduction of President Maduro and the military actions against state institutions raised serious concerns about respect for international law and the sovereignty of nations.

The continental body reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the fundamental principles of international law, including respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states and the right of peoples to self-determination, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.

The AU emphasised the importance of dialogue, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and respect for constitutional and institutional frameworks, urging that these principles guide relations among nations in the spirit of good neighbourliness, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence.(SaharaReporters)