EU: Maduro's detention is a chance for Venezuela's democratic transition

The detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US forces opens the door to a possible democratic transition in the country, according to the European Commission.

Although the Commission spokeswoman has so far refused to assess the legal aspects of the intervention, she stressed that the situation has created an opportunity for the Venezuelan people to determine their own political destiny. She also recalled that Maduro has never enjoyed the legitimacy of a democratically elected leader, according to the EU.

She did not want to comment on the US action itself, nor on the question of whether President Donald Trump is genuinely interested in democratising Venezuela.

(reuters, pir)