Australia has urged a diplomatic solution to the escalating crisis in Venezuela after being caught off guard by a dramatic United States raid that resulted in the detention and removal of President Nicolas Maduro.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday the government was closely monitoring rapidly unfolding developments and called on all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomacy to preserve regional stability.
In a statement posted on X, Albanese said Australia had long held concerns about Venezuela, particularly regarding democratic principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and reaffirmed support for international law and a peaceful, democratic transition reflecting the will of the Venezuelan people.
Assistant Health Minister Rebecca White said Australia was working with international partners to clarify details of Washington's surprise early-morning operation, which saw Maduro and his wife flown to New York to face criminal charges.