VP/HR — EU stance on the coup in Venezuela

31.1.2019

Question for written answer E-000536-19
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Maria Lidia Senra Rodríguez (GUE/NGL)

Following the attempted coup by the Venezuelan opposition and the move by its leader, Juan Guaidó, to proclaim himself ‘interim president’ in violation of the Venezuelan Constitution, the United States tried to instigate a debate in the UN Security Council, showing complete disregard for the sovereignty of the Venezuelan people. The UN Security Council rejected the request for a debate, although some EU Member States supported it. The EU has vowed to respect international law and the Charter of the United Nations, which states that none of its provisions ‘shall authorise the United Nations to intervene in matters which are essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of any state’ (Article 2(7)).

1. Will the VP/HR support foreign intervention led by the United States, which would be a violation of international law and at odds with the UN Security Council’s stance?

2. Will she support inclusive dialogue or the pro-Guaidó coup?

3. What view does she take of the economic sanctions unilaterally imposed on the Venezuelan people by the United States?