PH urges restraint in US’ attack on Venezuela

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines on Sunday called on all concerned parties in the US’ attack against Venezuela to exercise restraint, stating that it is “closely monitoring” developments in the country.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) made the pronouncement after the US launched military attacks against civilian and military installations in Venezuela, which led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

READ: US bombs Venezuela, captures President Maduro for ‘narco’ trial

“The Philippines is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Venezuela. The Philippines urges concerned parties to resolve disputes through peaceful means, and to exercise restraint to prevent escalation of conflict,” the DFA said.

Meanwhile, the DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Bogota has already issued a travel and safety advisory to Filipinos in Venezuela.

It said the embassy is ready to assist affected Filipinos, and if necessary and appropriate, “keep them out of harm’s way.”

READ: PH solons blast US gov’t over invasion of Venezuela

The US attacked Venezuela on Saturday (Sunday in Manila time) in a flurry of strikes against civilian and military installations.

READ: US allies, foes alarmed by toppling of Venezuela’s Maduro

After Maduro and his wife were captured in the attack, they were then taken to New York to face narcotics and terrorism charges.

Other countries have since denounced the US operation, including longtime allies of the Maduro government such as Russia and Iran, as well as US allies like France and the European Union. /cb