EU sees opportunity for democratic transition in Venezuela, spokesperson says

Demonstration for a democratic transition in Venezuela following U.S. strikes on the country, in Buenos Aires

A person holds a Venezuelan flag during a protest for a democratic transition in Venezuela, after the U.S. launched strikes on the country, capturing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, January 4, 2026. REUTERS/Mariana Nedelcu

Source: REUTERS

The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by the United States on Saturday creates an opportunity for a democratic transition in the country, a European Commission spokesperson said on Monday.

"It is too early to look into and assess all the implications in terms of legal assessment", the spokesperson said.

She did not comment on how the EU would characterise the U.S. action, but said it "created an opportunity for a democratic transition, led by the Venezuelan people."

"It's worth recalling that Nicolas Maduro lacked the legitimacy of a democratically elected leader," she added.

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The spokesperson declined to comment on the question if the EU thinks U.S. President Donald Trump is interested in a democratic transition in Venezuela.

This article was produced by Reuters news agency. It has not been edited by Global South World.

By Reuters