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New York, January — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed serious concern over the apparent disregard for international law following recent US military action in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.
Addressing an emergency session on Venezuela, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo conveyed the UN chief’s message, stressing the urgent need for all parties to fully respect international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
Guterres underlined that the UN Charter clearly prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, warning that failure to adhere to these principles undermines international peace and global stability.
He said the maintenance of international peace and security depends on the continued commitment of all member states to uphold the Charter and its provisions, particularly during periods of crisis and uncertainty.
“In situations as confused and complex as the one we now face, it is important to stick to principles,” the Secretary-General noted, emphasizing respect for sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity.
Guterres further stated that international law provides legal mechanisms to address issues such as narcotics trafficking, resource disputes, and human rights concerns, urging that “the power of law” must prevail over the use of force.
The emergency meeting was convened following a formal request from Venezuela’s permanent mission to the United Nations on January 3, supported by China and Russia.