The French president Emmanuel Macron reacted to the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan leader accused of ruling in an authoritarian manner for many years. In an official statement, the head of state hailed what he considers a major turning point for Venezuela and its people, while calling for a peaceful and democratic political transition.
On X, Emmanuel Macron thus declared:
"The Venezuelan people are now free from the dictatorship of Nicolás Maduro and can only rejoice in it.
By seizing power and trampling on fundamental freedoms, Nicolás Maduro has seriously undermined the dignity of his own people.
The upcoming transition must be peaceful, democratic, and respectful of the will of the Venezuelan people. We hope that the President Edmundo González Urrutia, elected in 2024, can ensure this transition as quickly as possible.
I am currently in discussions with our partners in the region.
The France is fully mobilized and vigilant, particularly to ensure the safety of its citizens during these uncertain times.
Emmanuel Macron also stressed the importance of close coordination with countries in the region in order to support the Venezuela in this phase deemed decisive. France affirms that it remains attentive to the evolving situation on the ground, particularly with regard to political stability and the protection of its citizens present in the country.