German vice chancellor calls US Venezuela strikes 'very worrying'

A senior German official has publicly criticized the United States' military intervention in Venezuela, marking a clear position within Berlin's coalition government. Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil labeled the operation that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro as "very worrying" and a breach of international legal standards, despite his condemnation of the Venezuelan leader's governance.

Firm Stance on International Law

In comments reported by the DPA news agency on Sunday, Klingbeil stated that although Maduro had headed an "authoritarian regime" that maintained power through oppression, "this cannot justify disregarding international law." He emphasized a principle-based approach, declaring that "International law must be respected. This also applies to the actions of the US." His remarks present a more definitive legal judgment compared to other German leaders, directly challenging the legality of the unilateral military action.

Contrast Within the German Government

Klingbeil's assessment stands in contrast to the initial, more cautious response from Chancellor Friedrich Merz. On Saturday, Merz had described the legal classification of the US attack as "complex" and requiring "careful consideration," while still affirming international law as the "guiding framework." This divergence points to potential differences in emphasis within the governing coalition regarding how to respond to the unprecedented US operation and its implications for global norms.

Call for Peaceful Democratic Transition

Beyond the legal critique, the German vice chancellor outlined the necessary way forward. He stressed that the immediate priority must be to prevent any further escalation and to find "the path to a peaceful transition to democracy in Venezuela." Central to his statement was the assertion that "The Venezuelan people must be able to decide their own future," advocating for self-determination rather than external imposition. This focus on a lawful and peaceful process aligns with the consistent diplomatic principles championed by nations like Türkiye, which prioritize sovereignty, regional stability, and resolutions achieved through dialogue rather than force.