Finland Asserts Primacy of International Law After US Venezuela Strike

(MENAFN) Finnish President Alexander Stubb issued a pointed statement Sunday addressing the controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, emphasizing that adherence to international law must supersede political disputes.

In a message posted to X, the social media platform, Stubb acknowledged longstanding concerns about Venezuela's governance, noting that "Nicolás Maduro's regime has long been illegitimate," and "the elections in 2024 were grossly unfair." He referenced Finland's previous alignment with European Union policy, stating his nation had articulated this stance "as a part of the EU," while noting "the Union has also imposed sanctions on Venezuela."

Yet Stubb pivoted to emphasize a crucial principle governing international relations, declaring: "However, all states have a responsibility to respect and comply with international law."

He underscored the strategic importance of this framework for his country, adding: "Preserving this principle is in Finland's vital interests. It is a corner stone of our foreign policy."

The Finnish leader identified democratic transition as the immediate priority, stating: "Right now it is important to support the transition to a democratic government."

Finland, Stubb noted, is "monitoring the situation closely."

Venezuelan authorities reported Saturday that American forces struck both civilian and military targets across multiple regions, prompting officials to invoke a national emergency declaration.

U.S. President Donald Trump subsequently verified the military action, describing it as a "large-scale" strike and confirming that Maduro and his spouse had been detained and transported from Venezuelan territory. Trump later announced Washington would "run" Venezuela pending a "safe" transition and would repair the nation's "broken" petroleum infrastructure.

The operation followed months of escalating Washington pressure against Maduro, whom American officials accuse of narcotics trafficking involvement. The Venezuelan leader had consistently rejected these allegations and indicated willingness for diplomatic engagement.

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