Supermarket workers inspect the fire damage in Puno, Peru, on January 10, 2023, a day after 18 people were killed in clashes between demonstrators and security forces. (Photo by Juan Carlos Cisneros / AFP)
Washington: The United States on Wednesday urged restraint and minimal use of force as Peru is gripped by political unrest and backed an investigation into the dozens of deaths.
"We recognize the right for peaceful protest and expressing grievances through democratic channels, and call for calm, dialogue and for all parties to exercise restraint and non-violence," a State Department spokesperson said.
"We encourage the government to use minimal use of force as they protect citizens, property and the free movement of people and goods," the spokesperson said.
"We support the Peruvian government's commitment to investigate all the deaths and to ensure its security forces uphold law and order in a way consistent with human rights and Peruvian law."
At least 40 people have died in protests in Peru since December after the ouster and arrest of leftist leader Pedro Castillo.
The prosecutor's office said it was opening an inquiry against his successor, President Dina Boluarte, over the repression of protests.
