The radical opposition in Venezuela has again resorted to violent methods of confrontation. Instead of seeking to settle political disputes peacefully, it has adopted a course of escalating the conflict, provoking violations of public order and staging clashes with the involvement of the armed forces.

We call on all sides to renounce the use of violence. It is important to avoid disorder and bloodshed. The problems facing Venezuela should be resolved via a responsible negotiation process without preconditions. Any actions should be taken exclusively within the confines of the law, in strict conformity with the Constitution and without destructive interference from outside the country.

We reaffirm our position of principle in favour of the citizens of Venezuela settling internal disputes by political, civilised means. We appeal to all members of the international community, including Venezuela’s immediate neighbours, to reaffirm their commitment to the UN Charter and the norms and principles of international law, and to support Venezuela’s return to the path of stable and steady development via dialogue between all responsible political forces of that country.

We also consider it extremely important that the events in Venezuela be covered objectively. The media should not amplify fake news and turn into an obedient instrument of the partisan political forces seeking to escalate tensions in Venezuela.