Special Correspondent
UNITED NATIONS: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned U.S. actions against Venezuela as a violation of international law.
During an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council discussing the current situation in Venezuela, concerns were raised about the ongoing developments. The Deputy Secretary-General read out a statement from Guterres, which condemned the detention of Venezuela’s President and his wife by the United States and urged all parties to adhere to the UN Charter.
In the statement, Guterres emphasized the importance of banning the use of threats or force, asserting that the rule of law must be upheld at all costs. He highlighted that international law provides effective mechanisms to address issues like illegal drug trafficking, resource disputes, and human rights violations.
Guterres further noted that the military operation carried out in Venezuela on January 3 had violated international legal norms. He pointed out that the UN Charter explicitly prohibits the use of force or threats against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of any state. He called for a return to dialogue, advocating for a comprehensive and democratic conversation where all sectors of Venezuelan society can freely decide their future.
The UN Secretary-General also referenced the panel of electoral experts appointed at the request of the Venezuelan government, which identified serious issues within the country’s electoral process. Guterres reiterated that the UN has continuously called for transparency in the election results and their full public release.
The Secretary-General urged Venezuela’s neighboring countries and the global community to act under the principles of solidarity and peaceful coexistence. He expressed readiness to support all efforts that lead the Venezuelan people toward a peaceful resolution of their crisis.
Guterres reiterated that respect for the UN Charter and all relevant legal frameworks is essential for the maintenance of peace and security.
