Venezuela Condemns US Strikes at UN, Calls for Emergency Session

Venezuela has formally requested the United Nations Security Council declare recent US military strikes illegal. The appeal came in a letter seen by Reuters this week. The action escalates a tense military standoff in the southern Caribbean.

The US has conducted multiple strikes on vessels it claims are involved in drug trafficking. Venezuela asserts these actions killed at least 27 people in international waters.

Diplomatic Showdown at the United Nations

Venezuela’s UN Ambassador, Samuel Moncada, sent the letter to the 15-member council. He accused Washington of attacking civilian vessels. The letter specifically asks for an investigation to determine the illegality of the US operations.

Moncada requested a Security Council statement reaffirming respect for national sovereignty. This directly challenges the US justification for its military buildup. According to Associated Press reports, the situation has created a major diplomatic crisis.

President Nicolas Maduro addressed the nation on state television. He accused the CIA of being authorized to conduct operations against Venezuela’s peace. Maduro stated the Venezuelan people are united and aware of the threat.

US Veto Power Limits UN Action

The Security Council’s ability to act is severely limited. The United States holds permanent member status and veto power. This means any substantive resolution against the US would likely be blocked.

The council already met once last week to discuss the rising tensions. Venezuela, Russia, and China jointly requested that session. The US defended its actions at that meeting, citing Article 51 of the UN Charter.

US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, reiterated this position. He stated President Trump would use all necessary means to defend US sovereignty. He emphasized that Article 51 allows for self-defense against armed attacks.

The confrontation highlights deepening international divisions. The US military strikes near Venezuela continue to draw global scrutiny. This diplomatic clash at the UN signals a prolonged geopolitical dispute.

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What is Venezuela asking the UN to do?

Venezuela wants the UN Security Council to investigate the US strikes. It seeks an official statement declaring the actions illegal and a violation of its sovereignty.

How has the United States justified the strikes?

The US cites Article 51 of the UN Charter, which covers self-defense. Officials claim the targeted vessels were involved in drug trafficking that threatens Americans.

Can the UN Security Council take action against the US?

Any formal action is unlikely because the US holds veto power. The council can hold meetings and issue statements, but a binding resolution would be vetoed.

What was the reported casualty figure from the strikes?

Venezuela’s UN ambassador stated the strikes killed at least 27 people. This claim was detailed in the official letter to the Security Council.

Which countries supported Venezuela’s call for a UN meeting?

Russia and China joined Venezuela in requesting the first Security Council session. This indicates broader geopolitical alliances are involved in the dispute.