UN Secretary-General Raises Alarm over International Law after US Operation in Venezuela
At an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed serious concern over the recent US operation in Venezuela, warning that international law may not have been respected and that the situation could further destabilize the region.
In a statement read out by senior UN diplomat Rosemary DiCarlo, Guterres said he was “deeply concerned about the possible intensification of instability in the country, the potential impact on the region, and the precedent it may set for how relations between and among states are conducted.”
The Secretary-General emphasized that the latest developments come after a prolonged period of rising tensions, which began in mid-August and have already been discussed twice by the Security Council. He reminded member states that he has repeatedly stressed the importance of full respect for international law, particularly the UN Charter, which serves as the cornerstone for maintaining international peace and security.
“I have consistently stressed the imperative of full respect by all for international law, including the Charter of the United Nations,” the statement said. “I remain deeply concerned that rules of international law have not been respected.”
Guterres’ remarks reflect growing unease within the international community about unilateral actions and their consequences for global stability. His warning also highlights fears that such operations could set dangerous precedents in international relations, potentially undermining established norms governing the use of force and state sovereignty.
The emergency Security Council meeting underscores the seriousness of the situation, as diplomats continue to debate the legality of the operation and its broader implications for Venezuela, the region, and the international system as a whole.
