Norway, Denmark FMs urge respect for int'l law after US attack on Venezuela

OSLO -- The foreign ministers of Norway and Denmark on Saturday voiced concern over the latest US military operation in Venezuela, stressing that international law must be respected and calling for de-escalation and dialogue under the United Nations framework.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide underscored that Washington's move raises serious legal concerns.

"The American intervention in Venezuela is not in line with international law," he told Norwegian broadcaster NRK.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen told Danish broadcaster DR that the situation in Venezuela represents a serious escalation and that he expects the UN Security Council to convene quickly to discuss the developments.

Rasmussen also emphasized the need to uphold international law. "We must maintain respect for the international rules of the game," he said.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that the United States has struck Venezuela and captured its President Nicolas Maduro, who was flown out of the country along with his wife.

Venezuela on Saturday denounced a "military aggression" by the United States, after large explosions were heard and aircraft were seen over the capital Caracas earlier in the day.