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U.N. Experts Condemn U.S. Strikes Against Venezuela as “Extrajudicial executions”
A group of independent United Nations experts has sharply criticized recent U.S. military actions against Venezuela, labeling the strikes in international waters a “dangerous escalation” and equating them to “extrajudicial executions.” The condemnation comes as tensions rise between washington and Caracas, fueled by President Donald Trump’s campaign against alleged “narcoterrorism” linked to the venezuelan government.
Escalating Tensions in the Caribbean
In recent months, the U.S. has conducted at least six strikes targeting suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of at least 27 individuals. these operations are framed by the Trump management as a necesary response to a significant threat emanating from Venezuela and its President, Nicolas Maduro. While acknowledging the administration’s stated justification, the U.N. experts maintain that the use of lethal force without a clear legal basis constitutes a violation of international law of the sea.
“Even if such allegations were substantiated, the use of lethal force in international waters without proper legal basis violates the international law of the sea and amounts to extrajudicial executions,” the experts stated.
Sovereignty and International Obligations
The independent experts, appointed by the U.N.Human Rights Council, further asserted that the strikes infringe upon venezuela’s sovereignty and contravene the United States’ “essential international obligations.” These obligations, they argue, include a prohibition against intervening in the domestic affairs of other nations and the use of armed force against another country.
“These moves are an extremely dangerous escalation with grave implications for peace and security in the Caribbean region,” the statement read.
U.S. Rejection of Maduro and Justification Under Article 51
Washington does not recognise Nicolas Maduro’s 2024 election victory, claiming “overwhelming evidence” supports the win of his opponent. A senior state Department official, speaking anonymously, dismissed the U.N. experts as advocates for an “illegitimate leader” who is a “fugitive of American justice” and a threat to regional security.
The United States has attempted to justify its actions under Article 51 of the U.N. Charter, which permits self-defense against armed attack, stipulating that the Security Council be immediately informed of any such actions.
Venezuelan Response and Accusations of Fabricated Pretexts
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil welcomed the U.N. experts’ assessment, stating it corroborates Caracas’ concerns regarding the U.S. military campaign.”The United States fabricates enemies to justify a supposed right to self-defense,which results in massacres in the Caribbean,” Gil said in a message posted on Telegram.
Military Buildup and Covert Operations
The U.S. strikes are occurring alongside a significant military buildup in the caribbean, including the deployment of guided-missile destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, a nuclear submarine, and approximately 6,500 troops.Last week, President trump also authorized the Central Intelligence Agency to conduct covert operations within Venezuela, raising further concerns about the potential for escalation.
The U.N. experts warned that any covert or direct military action against a sovereign state would represent “an even graver breach” of the U.N. charter. They indicated they have been in contact with U.S. officials regarding their concerns.
The situation remains volatile,with the potential for further escalation as the U.S. continues to pursue its strategy against Venezuela.
