India on Sunday said it was “deeply concerned” by the fast-changing political situation in Venezuela and that it was closely monitoring developments, according to a statement issued on January 4, 2026.
“Recent developments in Venezuela are a matter of deep concern. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation,” the statement said. India urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
Reaffirming its position, the government said it supports the well-being and safety of the Venezuelan people and called for peaceful engagement to ensure regional stability. “India calls upon all concerned to address issues through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability in the region,” it said.
The statement also noted that the Indian Embassy in Caracas remains in touch with members of the Indian community and will continue to extend all possible assistance.
A day earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a travel advisory asking Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela in view of the unfolding situation. Indians currently in the country were advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict movement and stay in regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Caracas.
US operation against Maduro
In a dramatic development, US President Donald Trump announced in the early hours of Saturday that American forces had carried out a “large-scale” operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Trump said the operation was conducted in coordination with US law enforcement agencies.
Maduro has been charged in the United States with narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and offences related to the possession of machine guns and destructive devices, among other charges.
US claims interim role
Trump also claimed that the United States would assist in running Venezuela during an interim period, though there was no immediate indication of such involvement on the ground. “We are going to run the country until there is a safe, proper and judicious transition,” Trump said at a press conference, describing the operation as “extremely successful” and warning that it should serve as a message to those threatening American lives or sovereignty.
Delcy Rodríguez named interim president
Meanwhile, Venezuela’s Supreme Court on Sunday directed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume charge as interim president to ensure administrative continuity and safeguard national defence. In its ruling, the Constitutional Chamber said Rodríguez would exercise presidential powers during the period of transition