UNITED NATIONS
The United Nations has expressed deep alarm over the United States’ military intervention in Venezuela, warning that the operation which led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro could set a dangerous precedent and undermine the foundations of international law.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was “deeply concerned” by the use of force without explicit authorisation from the UN Security Council, stressing that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity remains a cornerstone of the UN Charter. In a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Guterres cautioned that unilateral military actions risk destabilising already fragile regions and weakening the global rules-based order.
The intervention dominated an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, requested by Venezuela and several allied nations, where sharp divisions quickly emerged. A number of member states, particularly from Latin America, argued that the U.S. operation constituted a clear violation of international law, regardless of long-standing concerns about Venezuela’s political leadership. Several diplomats warned that allowing such actions to go unchallenged could embolden other countries to bypass multilateral institutions in future conflicts.
During the session, UN officials reiterated that the Charter permits the use of force only in cases of self-defence or with Security Council approval. They emphasised that even serious allegations involving drug trafficking, corruption, or human rights abuses must be addressed through legal and diplomatic mechanisms rather than military intervention.
The United States, however, defended its actions at the UN. Washington’s representative described the mission as a law-enforcement operation linked to longstanding criminal charges against Maduro, arguing that his government lacked democratic legitimacy and posed a threat to regional stability. The U.S. insisted that its actions were justified and necessary, a position that drew immediate pushback from several council members.
Russia and China were among the most vocal critics, accusing the United States of undermining international norms and abusing its power. Both countries called for restraint and urged the Security Council to reaffirm the principles of non-intervention. Other nations stopped short of outright condemnation but echoed concerns about escalation and the long-term impact on global governance.
Beyond the council chamber, UN agencies warned of potential humanitarian and political fallout. Officials noted that Venezuela is already grappling with economic hardship and social strain, and any further instability could worsen conditions for civilians and increase regional displacement.
As debates continue in New York, the United Nations is urging all parties to de-escalate tensions and prioritise dialogue. The Secretary-General has called for a renewed focus on peaceful solutions, stressing that lasting stability in Venezuela can only be achieved through political processes that respect international law, not through force.
The unfolding situation has placed the UN at the centre of a global reckoning over sovereignty, accountability, and the limits of unilateral action questions that are likely to resonate well beyond Venezuela in the days ahead.
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