UN Chief Offers Mediation Support in Talks With Venezuelan Envoy
Guterres Reaffirms Position on US Military Action
Hamilton, Canada — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres met on Wednesday with Venezuela’s UN Ambassador Samuel Moncada and restated his publicly expressed stance on recent US military action in Venezuela.
According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres also offered his “good offices” to help support an inclusive national dialogue in the country. He said the UN stands ready to assist if Venezuelan parties seek a peaceful and political solution.
Concerns Over International Law
Earlier this week, Guterres voiced serious concern about what he described as violations of international law following the US operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
In a statement, he stressed that all states must fully respect international law, including the United Nations Charter, which underpins global peace and security.
Call to Avoid Further Escalation
When asked about the latest US seizure of a vessel linked to Venezuela, Dujarric said the UN is aware of the situation but lacks enough information to expand on earlier comments. He added that all law enforcement actions at sea must comply with international maritime law to ensure safety and security on the high seas.
Moreover, he urged restraint and called for the avoidance of any further escalation amid rising tensions.
Background of the Crisis
Dujarric’s remarks come as the United States intensifies maritime enforcement following heightened tensions with Caracas. On January 3, US forces launched a military operation in Venezuela. Airstrikes targeted air defense systems before special operations forces entered Caracas and detained President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
US authorities later transported the couple to New York, where they pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and weapons charges during their first court appearance.
Venezuela has strongly condemned the seizure of vessels, calling the actions “international piracy.” In contrast, Washington argues that the operations are necessary to enforce a blockade against what it describes as a Venezuelan “dark fleet
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