Canada is reiterating its long-standing position on Venezuela as international attention focuses on rapidly unfolding developments following a major U.S. military operation in the country.
In a statement issued January 3, 2026, Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand said Canada continues to reject the legitimacy of the Maduro government and supports democratic principles and the rule of law.
“Since 2019, when Canada closed its embassy in Venezuela, we have refused to recognize any legitimacy of the Maduro regime and opposed its repression of the Venezuelan people, including the persecution of dissenters and particularly political leaders opposed to the regime,” Anand said.
“In keeping with our long-standing commitment to uphold the rule of law and to democracy, Canada stands by the people of Venezuela and their desire to live in a peaceful and democratic society. Canada also calls on all parties to exercise restraint and uphold international law.”
Anand said Canada is closely monitoring the situation and engaging with international partners. “Canada is engaging with its international partners and monitoring developments closely,” she said. “Canada stands ready to assist Canadians in Venezuela in need through our consular officials and embassy in Bogotá, Colombia.”
The federal government’s position was echoed by Prime Minister Mark Carney in a statement published on social media, welcoming what he described as a potential opening for democratic change while emphasizing international law and multilateral engagement.
“One of the first actions taken by Canada’s new government in March 2025 was to impose additional sanctions on Nicolás Maduro’s brutally oppressive and criminal regime — unequivocally condemning his grave breaches of international peace and security, gross and systematic human rights violations, and corruption,” Carney said. “Canada has not recognised the illegitimate regime of Maduro since it stole the 2018 election. The Canadian government therefore welcomes the opportunity for freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity for the Venezuelan people.”
Carney added that Canada continues to support a non-violent, Venezuelan-led path forward. “Canada has long supported a peaceful, negotiated, and Venezuelan-led transition process that respects the democratic will of the Venezuelan people,” he said. “In keeping with our long-standing commitment to upholding the rule of law, sovereignty, and human rights, Canada calls on all parties to respect international law. We stand by the Venezuelan people’s sovereign right to decide and build their own future in a peaceful and democratic society.”
He also emphasized Canada’s focus on diplomacy and consular assistance. “Canada attaches great importance to resolution of crises through multilateral engagement and is in close contact with international partners about ongoing developments,” Carney said. “We are first and foremost ready to assist Canadians through our consular officials and our embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, and will continue to support Venezuelan refugees.”
The statements come after reports that the United States carried out a large-scale military operation in Venezuela earlier Saturday, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife and their transfer to U.S. custody. U.S. officials have said the pair face federal charges in New York, while Venezuelan authorities have denounced the operation, declared a national emergency, and called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Canada has not commented directly on the U.S. military action but has stressed restraint, adherence to international law, and continued support for the Venezuelan people as the situation continues to evolve.
