UN Chief Warns US Actions in Venezuela Set Dangerous Precedent

Alarm from the UN Secretary-General

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed being "deeply alarmed" by the escalating confrontations between the United States and Venezuela, culminating in the reported capture of President Nicolás Maduro by American special forces on Saturday morning. President Donald Trump announced the development on social media, stating that Maduro and his wife would face the "full fury of American justice on American soil, in American courts," based on a 2020 indictment during Trump's first administration in New York.

Military Operations and State of Emergency

The American operation commenced with nighttime attacks around the capital, Caracas. Venezuela has declared a national state of emergency, while casualty figures and the extent of damage are yet to be confirmed. The Venezuelan government condemned the act as a "severe military aggression" from the United States, following months of heightened tensions including significant military mobilizations near the Venezuelan coast and a series of lethal attacks on suspected drug trafficking boats.

Calls for Adherence to International Law

Guterres emphasized that these events represent a dangerous precedent and underscored the importance of full compliance with international law, including the UN Charter. He urged all involved parties to engage in "inclusive dialogue" adhering to human rights and international law. Meanwhile, Volker Türk, the UN human rights chief, called for restraint and full respect for international law, highlighting that "the protection of people in Venezuela is essential and must guide any subsequent actions."

Emergency Security Council Meeting

Venezuela has formally requested an emergency meeting of the Security Council in New York. President Trump is set to hold a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Stay tuned for more information regarding this developing situation...