UN Human Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed deep concern over the situation in Venezuela following a United States military operation carried out over the weekend, warning that the action undermines fundamental principles of international law.

In a statement, UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said the operation violated “a fundamental principle of international law – that States must not threaten or use force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.”

The United States has justified its intervention by pointing to what the UN described as the Venezuelan government’s “longstanding and appalling human rights record.” However, the High Commissioner stressed that accountability for human rights abuses cannot be achieved through unilateral military action that breaches international law.

“The people of Venezuela deserve accountability through a fair, victim-centred process,” the statement said.

Additional concern was raised over a state of emergency declared by Venezuelan authorities that took effect on Saturday. According to the UN, the measures authorize restrictions on freedom of movement, the seizure of property deemed necessary for national defense, and the suspension of the right to assembly and protest, among other limitations.

The High Commissioner called on both the United States and Venezuelan authorities, as well as the broader international community, to ensure full respect for international law, including international human rights standards.

Meanwhile, Belize says it is aligning with the Bureau of CARICOM Heads of Government and will continue working with regional partners to assess the broader implications for the hemisphere. Officials are urging restraint and respect for international law, while calling for constructive dialogue that restores constitutional order and reflects the will of the Venezuelan people. Belize has also reiterated its commitment to the region as a “Zone of Peace,” even as developments in Venezuela test that principle.

On Saturday, the United States launched a major military operation, deploying more than 150 aircraft overnight to capture Maduro. Senior U.S. officials described the operation as months in the making and unprecedented in scale.