UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced serious concern over the escalating confrontation between Washington and Caracas, which reached a critical point on Saturday with the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US special forces.
According to a statement released by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, “The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the recent escalation in Venezuela, culminating with today’s United States military action in the country, which has potential worrying implications for the region.”
The statement stressed that the implications extend beyond Venezuela itself, noting: “Independently of the situation in Venezuela, these developments constitute a dangerous precedent. The Secretary-General continues to emphasise the importance of full respect – by all – of international law, including the UN Charter.”
Guterres also expressed concern over adherence to legal norms, saying, “He’s deeply concerned that the rules of international law have not been respected.”
The UN chief urged all sides to pursue an “inclusive dialogue” and to act in line with international law and human rights principles.
