Venezuela Crisis: UN Chief Raises Concerns Over US Military Move

Guterres Warns of Worrying Precedent

The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has voiced serious concern over recent US military actions in Venezuela. According to Guterres, these actions set a dangerous precedent for other nations. The UN Security Council is expected to convene soon to discuss the issue, following requests from Venezuela and Colombia, with backing from Russia and China.

Call for Adherence to International Law

Guterres' spokesperson underscored the critical importance of upholding international law and the UN Charter. He noted that recent events have disregarded these principles. This is not the first time the UN Security Council has addressed tensions between the US and Venezuela, with previous meetings held in October and December.

Venezuela Condemns US Action

Samuel Moncada, Venezuela's UN Ambassador, strongly denounced the US action, labeling it a deadly and covert attack on a peaceful nation. Moncada warned of potential severe repercussions for regional and global peace, accusing the US of violating the UN Charter, which prohibits the use of force against any state's territorial integrity or political independence.

US Justifies Actions as Self-Defense

The US has been actively engaged in the region for months, targeting suspected drug trafficking boats and increasing its military presence. Last month, the US announced a blockade on vessels subject to US sanctions, intercepting two tankers loaded with Venezuelan crude. The US justified its actions under Article 51 of the UN Charter, citing self-defense.

US Ambassador Defends Actions

Mike Waltz, the US Ambassador to the UN, defended the US action on social media, asserting that it was about justice, not regime change. Waltz described Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as an indicted and illegitimate dictator, responsible for the deaths of American citizens.