President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to avoid actions that could further destabilize Venezuela. In a phone call earlier today, Erdogan emphasized the importance of respecting international law and the political legitimacy of nations.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, President Erdogan stated that Turkey opposes any actions that violate international law, regardless of where they occur. He highlighted the close relationship between Turkey and Venezuela, describing the recent events in the South American nation as “unfortunate.”
“Turkey does not approve of any action that violates political legitimacy and international law, no matter where it is in the world,” Erdogan stated. He reiterated Ankara’s commitment to the well-being of both Turkey and the people of Venezuela, pledging to support their pursuit of stability, prosperity, and development.
President Erdogan noted the strong bond between the Turkish and Venezuelan people, stating, “Mr. Maduro and the Venezuelan people have repeatedly shown that they are friends of our people. As two friendly countries, we have attached importance to solidarity with each other during difficult times, and today we continue to work with the same understanding and approach.”
Following the cabinet meeting, Erdogan told reporters that Turkey desires neither chaos nor tension in its region or elsewhere. He stressed the importance of maintaining a rules-based international order, warning that instability, crises, and conflicts arise when power triumphs over law.
The comments follow reports of President Nicolas Maduro’s appearance before a federal court in Manhattan, New York earlier today. The situation in Venezuela remains a significant point of international concern.
