SANTO DOMINGO – Dominican President Luis Abinader has publicly commented on the dramatic apprehension of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro by United States forces. The operation, which resulted in Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores being taken into custody in New York on charges encompassing drug trafficking and terrorism, prompted an official response from the Caribbean nation.
Through an official statement disseminated on social media platforms, President Abinader confirmed that his government is monitoring the situation with keen interest. He contextualized the Dominican Republic’s position by referencing its longstanding diplomatic stance, which has consistently rejected the legitimacy of Maduro’s presidency following the contentious July 2024 elections.
Abinader highlighted the nation’s prior diplomatic efforts, specifically the promotion of the Santo Domingo Declaration in August 2024. This initiative was championed by the Dominican government to advocate for the unequivocal respect of the electoral will expressed by the Venezuelan populace.
Stressing the profound and historic bonds of solidarity between the Dominican and Venezuelan peoples, the president articulated a firm commitment to facilitating a peaceful democratic transition. “We reiterate our readiness to collaborate in the restoration of democracy, peace, and national harmony in Venezuela,” Abinader declared. He concluded with a powerful affirmation of his nation’s principles: “The Dominican Republic will always stand on the side of democracy. Wherever, whenever, and before whomever.”
The capture of the Venezuelan head of state marks a significant escalation in international relations, placing the Caribbean nation in a pivotal role as a regional advocate for democratic governance.