The Vatican confirmed that it attempted to mediate a peaceful exit for Nicolás Maduro and other leaders of the Venezuelan regime, even exploring the possibility of exile in Russia before his capture by the United States, according to statements by Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. The stated goal was to prevent bloodshed in Venezuela and seek a negotiated solution to the country’s political crisis.
Parolin acknowledged that there were contacts with representatives of the Venezuelan government and diplomatic efforts, some reported by The Washington Post, in which the idea of granting Maduro safe passage out of the country to Russia was considered. However, these initiatives did not materialize before U.S. intervention.
The Holy See stressed that it has consistently supported a peaceful resolution to the conflict and expressed hope that Venezuela can move toward stability, economic recovery, and greater democratization after years of crisis.
Why was the agreement for Maduro’s exile not finalized?
Because, despite the Vatican’s diplomatic efforts and talks with multiple actors, no understanding was reached before the situation changed with Maduro’s detention by United States forces, rendering the negotiations ineffective.