Philippines stresses rules-based order as Trump threatens to 'run' VenezuelaMANILA, Philippines — The Philippines called for respect of international law and the rules-based order following a United States military strike on Venezuela that captured President Nicolás Maduro. The Philippine statement invoked the same principles of rules-based order that Manila has championed in its ongoing territorial disputes with Beijing — principles the US has previously supported in the South China Sea. The department also reiterated its call for the concerned parties to adhere to international law and exercise restraint to prevent an escalation of conflict. The capture followed months of Trump administration pressure on Maduro's government over alleged drug trafficking and democratic backsliding. In November, the Trump administration designated Maduro as head of a foreign terrorist organization, citing alleged links to drug cartels.

Source: Philippine Star January 05, 2026 07:39 UTC