UN debates US operation in Venezuela amid widespread condemnation: Video
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, in remarks broadcast by UN Web TV, Mexico’s representative strongly criticised what he described as “regime changes by external actors,” as several countries from the Global South voiced opposition to recent US actions in Venezuela.
Ambassador Héctor Vasconcelos warned that external intervention and the application of extraterritorial measures violate international law and have historically deepened conflict while weakening the social and political fabric of affected nations.
The debate followed the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by US forces after strikes on Caracas and other areas, with Washington stating the operation was linked to narcoterrorism charges. Venezuelan authorities declared a national emergency, accusing the United States of attempting to seize strategic resources, particularly oil and minerals.
At the Security Council, the US rejected accusations of military aggression, describing the operation as a limited law enforcement action rather than an act of war. That explanation was challenged by several delegations, including Russia, China and Colombia. Russia’s UN ambassador said there was no justification for US actions in Venezuela, while China said it was “deeply shocked” by what it called bullying behaviour. The African A3 group also expressed serious concerns.
The operation has drawn condemnation beyond the UN chamber, with criticism from governments across Latin America, BRICS countries and other regions. European Union members and several European states called for respect for international law, though most avoided directly condemning the United States, highlighting divisions in the international response.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
