Prime Minister Mark Carney and his office have reiterated Canada’s firm stance against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government, reaffirming Ottawa’s support for a democratic transition and the Venezuelan people’s right to determine their own future.
In a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, Carney noted that one of the new government’s first actions after taking office in March 2025 was to impose additional sanctions on what Canada describes as Maduro’s oppressive and criminal regime. The sanctions, the statement said, were meant to clearly condemn serious breaches of international peace and security, widespread and systematic human rights violations, and corruption.
Carney’s office reiterated that Canada has not recognized Maduro’s government since the 2018 presidential election, which Ottawa considers illegitimate. The statement said Canada welcomes any opportunity that advances freedom, democracy, peace and prosperity for the Venezuelan people.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Canada continues to support a peaceful, negotiated and Venezuelan-led transition that respects the democratic will of citizens. The government emphasized its long-standing commitment to upholding the rule of law, national sovereignty and human rights, and called on all parties to abide by international law.
The statement also stressed Canada’s preference for resolving international crises through multilateral engagement, noting that Ottawa remains in close contact with international partners regarding developments in Venezuela.
Carney’s office added that Canada remains ready to assist Canadians in the region through its consular services and its embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, and will continue to support Venezuelan refugees affected by the ongoing crisis.
