The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called for restraint, inclusive dialogue and respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty following recent developments in the South American country.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the regional bloc said it was closely monitoring the situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. While acknowledging the responsibility of states to combat transnational crimes, ECOWAS stressed that such actions must be conducted in line with international law.
The commission said it recognises the right of states to fight international crimes, including terrorism and drug trafficking, but urged the international community to uphold the principles governing relations among sovereign nations. It reminded states of their obligation to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of others, as enshrined in Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter.
ECOWAS also aligned itself with broader continental efforts, noting that it supports the African Union’s call for calm and engagement in Venezuela. The bloc said it fully endorses the AU statement issued on January 3, 2026, which urged restraint and inclusive dialogue among the Venezuelan people.
Reaffirming its position, ECOWAS expressed solidarity with Venezuela and its citizens, calling on all states to respect the country’s independence and territorial integrity. It added that the future of Venezuela should be determined by its people through an inclusive process.
Earlier, the African Union condemned the reported U.S. military strikes on Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The AU said it was following developments in the country with grave concern amid reports of attacks on state institutions.
In a communiqué, the continental body said the reported abduction of President Maduro and military actions against Venezuelan institutions raised serious concerns about respect for international law and national sovereignty. It reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the right of peoples to self-determination, while emphasising dialogue, peaceful dispute resolution and respect for constitutional frameworks.
