The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has voiced serious concern over the deepening crisis in Venezuela following reports of military action by the United States, cautioning that the development could set a troubling precedent and threaten regional stability.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, the UN chief said he was deeply disturbed by the latest escalation in the South American country, which he noted culminated in direct U.S. military involvement. Guterres warned that such actions carry potentially far-reaching consequences and risk undermining the established framework of international law.
He emphasized that irrespective of Venezuela’s internal political circumstances, all actors are obligated to uphold international legal standards, including the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. According to him, there are grave concerns that the rules governing the use of force may not have been fully observed.
“The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the recent escalation in Venezuela, culminating in today’s United States military action, which has potentially worrying implications for the region,” the statement said. “Regardless of the situation in Venezuela, these developments represent a dangerous precedent. The Secretary-General continues to stress the need for full respect by all parties for international law, including the UN Charter, and is deeply concerned that the rules of international law may not have been respected.”
Guterres called on all Venezuelan stakeholders to de-escalate tensions, refrain from further confrontation, and pursue inclusive dialogue grounded in respect for human rights and the rule of law.
In contrast, U.S. Representative Riley M. Moore, who represents West Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, defended a hardline approach toward the government of President Nicolás Maduro. Moore accused the Venezuelan leadership of facilitating narcotics trafficking and strengthening the influence of U.S. adversaries in the Western Hemisphere.
“Narco-traffickers like Nicolas Maduro exploited the situation, sending a steady flow of poison into our country, killing Americans and destroying communities,” Moore said. He further alleged that Caracas had provided China, Russia, and Iran with a strategic foothold in the region.
Declaring a firm stance, the congressman added, “No more. This is America’s backyard, and we will defend it. Do not test the resolve of the President of the United States.”