Cambodia expresses concern over Venezuela developments, calls for peaceful resolution

PHNOM PENH, Jan 19,2026(KPT)— Cambodia said Monday it is closely monitoring recent developments in Venezuela with “serious concern” and reiterated its support for resolving disputes peacefully through dialogue and respect for international law, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A ministry spokesperson told reporters that Cambodia “strongly advocates for peace and stability in Latin America and beyond” and stressed the importance of settling differences in line with the United Nations Charter and other international norms.

The comments come amid heightened international focus on Venezuela after a major escalation earlier this month.

On January 3, United States forces carried out a military operation in Caracas that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife on drug‑related charges, as part of a U.S. counter‑narcotics effort.

The move marked an unprecedented intervention in the country’s internal affairs and drew global attention.

International reaction has been sharply divided. Some governments and regional actors welcomed the action against criminal networks and voiced hope for democratic restoration.

Others condemned it as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty, with Russia and China among the critics.

The United Nations Security Council has also debated the crisis, with delegations split over whether the U.S. operation upholds accountability or undermines fundamental principles of international order.

The UN secretary‑general has warned the situation could have broader implications for regional stability.

Cambodia’s foreign ministry reiterated that all states should respect sovereignty and territorial integrity, refrain from the use of force, and seek solutions through inclusive political dialogue.

The spokesperson said Phnom Penh continues to uphold the UN Charter’s principles and urged all parties to exercise restraint.

The ministry did not comment directly on the U.S. operation but underlined Cambodia’s support for international law and norms as the basis for resolving conflicts and promoting global peace and security.