German Chancellor Calls Legal Review of US Strikes on Venezuela Complex
Merz emphasizes need for orderly transition amid political tensions
BERLIN — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Saturday that assessing the legality of US strikes on Venezuela is “complex and requires careful consideration.” The comments followed reports that US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife during a “large-scale strike.”
Merz highlighted that international law remains the guiding principle. He warned that political instability in Venezuela must be avoided and called for an orderly transition to an elected government.
The chancellor also criticized Maduro, accusing him of leading Venezuela “into ruin” and describing the country’s last election as “rigged.” Like many other nations, Germany does not recognize Maduro’s presidency.
Earlier, Left Party (Die Linke) lawmaker Sören Pellmann urged Germany to “clearly and unequivocally” condemn the US strikes. He described the operation, which reportedly captured Maduro and removed him from Venezuela, as a “dangerous escalation” and a “clear violation of international law.”
Venezuela’s government had accused the US of targeting civilian and military installations across several states, declaring a national emergency. President Donald Trump later confirmed the strike and said Maduro and his wife were being transported to the US to face trial.
The US military action follows months of tension, with Washington accusing Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking. Maduro has denied the allegations and expressed willingness to engage in talks.
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