African Union urges restraint in Venezuela, backs sovereignty and 'inclusive political dialogue'

The African Union (AU) has issued a statement expressing "grave concern" over the escalating crisis in Venezuela, specifically citing reports of the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and military attacks on state institutions.

In a communiqué released from its headquarters in Addis Ababa on January 3, 2026, the continental body called for restraint and emphasised a peaceful, Venezuelan-led resolution to the turmoil.

"The African Union is following with grave concern the recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, including reports of the abduction of the President of the Republic, Mr. Nicolás Maduro, and military attacks on Venezuelan institutions," the statement read.

The AU used the statement to firmly reiterate its foundational diplomatic principles. It "reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the fundamental principles of international law, including respect for the sovereignty of States, their territorial integrity, and the right of peoples to self determination, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations."

Central to the Union's position is a call for internal dialogue. The communiqué stressed that "the complex internal challenges facing Venezuela can only be sustainably addressed through inclusive political dialogue among Venezuelans themselves." 

It further underscored "the importance of dialogue, peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for constitutional and institutional frameworks."

While expressing "solidarity with the Venezuelan people," the AU stopped short of assigning blame for the reported attacks and abduction. Instead, it issued a broad appeal to "all parties concerned to exercise restraint, responsibility, and respect for international law to prevent any escalation and to preserve regional peace and stability."

The statement concludes by reiterating the AU's broader "commitment to the promotion of peace, stability, and mutual respect among nations and regions." 

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