By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern over recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, including reports of the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and military attacks on Venezuelan state institutions.
In a communiqué issued from Addis Ababa on January 3, 2026, the AU said it is closely monitoring the situation, which it described as troubling and potentially destabilising for the country and the wider region.
The continental body reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the fundamental principles of international law, stressing the need to respect the sovereignty of states, their territorial integrity, and the right of peoples to self-determination, in line with the Charter of the United Nations.
The AU underscored the importance of dialogue and the peaceful settlement of disputes, calling for strict respect for constitutional and institutional frameworks. It noted that cooperation, good neighbourliness, and peaceful coexistence among nations remain critical to maintaining international peace and stability.
According to the statement, the African Union believes Venezuela’s complex internal challenges can only be sustainably resolved through inclusive political dialogue among Venezuelans themselves, without external interference.
The AU further expressed solidarity with the Venezuelan people and reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and mutual respect among nations and regions.
It therefore called on all parties involved in the unfolding situation to exercise restraint and responsibility, respect international law, and avoid actions that could escalate tensions and undermine regional peace and stability.
