United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has sharply criticized recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, describing it as a “dangerous precedent” that risks undermining international law and regional stability. His comments come amid global shock over the dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces and subsequent developments that have escalated diplomatic tensions.
In a statement issued on 3 January 2026, Guterres said he was “deeply alarmed” by the escalation between the United States and Venezuela, which culminated in a large-scale U.S. military operation and the reported removal of Maduro from power by force. The Secretary-General’s spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said the action had “potential worrying implications for the region” and stressed that, “independently of the situation in Venezuela, these developments constitute a dangerous precedent.” He reiterated the importance of full respect for international law, including the UN Charter, and expressed concern that legal norms may not have been upheld.
Guterres also called on all parties to engage in inclusive dialogue and urged adherence to human rights and the rule of law as the crisis unfolds. The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, echoed this call, emphasizing that the protection of Venezuelan people must remain paramount in any further actions.
U.S. Military Operation and Aftermath
The controversy stems from a sudden U.S. military operation conducted early on Saturday, which included air strikes around Caracas and resulted in the capture of President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. U.S. authorities confirmed they transported the couple to New York, where they face federal charges related to drug trafficking and other serious offenses. President Donald Trump publicly stated that the United States would temporarily “run” Venezuela until a “safe, proper and judicious transition” of power could be arranged, underscoring the unprecedented nature of the intervention.
The U.S. government defended its actions as part of long-standing efforts to counter alleged narco-terrorism and criminal networks in the Western Hemisphere. However, critics argue the operation constitutes a breach of Venezuela’s sovereignty and a violation of international norms.
Global Reaction and Diplomatic Fallout
The international response has been deeply divided. Many countries and international figures condemned the U.S. action as a violation of international law and a dangerous model for future military interventions. Nations such as China, Russia, France, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, and South Africa have criticized the strike and called for respect for state sovereignty. Conversely, some leaders, including Argentina’s President Javier Milei, welcomed Maduro’s removal as progress against tyranny.
Amid mounting concern, the UN Security Council is scheduled to meet to address the crisis. Colombia, with support from key global powers including Russia and China, formally requested the session to discuss the implications of the U.S. action and potential breaches of the UN Charter.
Venezuela’s Government Responds
Venezuelan officials have denounced the U.S. operation as “extremely serious military aggression” and a violation of international law, with Caracas declaring a national state of emergency following the strikes. The Venezuelan government has portrayed the intervention as an attempt to undermine its sovereignty and exploit the nation’s extensive natural resources.
What’s Next
The unfolding situation in Venezuela has thrust international law, sovereign rights, and the future of U.S. foreign policy into the spotlight. With global calls for de-escalation growing, world leaders and the United Nations will be watching closely as diplomatic maneuvers and potential Security Council actions continue to shape the crisis.
Original article link: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/01/1166698
