Kuala lumpur: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has said that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife must be released without any undue delay. He said that whatever may be the reasons, the forcible removal of a sitting head of government through external action sets a dangerous precedent. He said that it erodes fundamental restraints on the use of power between states and weakens the legal framework that underpins international order.In a statement issued on X, Anwar Ibrahim wrote 'I have followed developments in Venezuela with grave concern. The leader of Venezuela and his wife were seized in a United States military operation of unusual scope and nature. Such actions constitute a clear violation of international law and amount to an unlawful use of force against a sovereign state'.Anwar Ibrahim said that it is for the people of Venezuela to determine their own political future. As history has shown, abrupt changes in leadership brought about through external force will bring more harm th an good, what more in a country already grappling with prolonged economic hardship and deep social strain.Anwar Ibrahim said that Malaysia regards respect for international law and sovereignty as paramount to peaceful relations between states. He said that constructive engagement, dialogue and de-escalation remain the most credible path towards an outcome that protects civilians and allows Venezuelans to pursue their legitimate aspirations without further harm.