Key Facts
• On January 5, 2026, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting in New York to discuss the US attack on Venezuela.
• Venezuela condemned the attack and demanded the immediate release of President Maduro.
• The US claimed the operation was a “legal law enforcement” action.
• UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over violations of international law.
• Venezuela’s UN Ambassador Moncada called the attack a clear violation of the UN Charter’s prohibition on the use of force.
• China, Russia, and Colombia strongly condemned the attack as unilateral.
• US Ambassador Waltz accused Maduro of drug-related terrorism causing tens of thousands of US deaths.
• The US justified the attack as law enforcement based on a valid indictment, not an act of war.
• Criticism of Maduro’s regime for human rights abuses and drug trafficking was voiced amid the dispute.
Summary
The UN Security Council convened urgently on January 5, 2026, to address the US military action against Venezuela. The meeting revealed sharp divisions: Venezuela and allies condemned the attack as a breach of international law and demanded President Maduro’s immediate release, citing violations of sovereign immunity and the UN Charter. Conversely, the US defended the operation as lawful law enforcement targeting Maduro’s alleged drug terrorism responsible for numerous American deaths. UN Secretary-General Guterres voiced serious concerns about the disregard for international legal norms. The debate also highlighted ongoing criticisms of Maduro’s government for human rights violations and narcotics trafficking. This incident underscores escalating geopolitical tensions and differing interpretations of international law regarding unilateral military actions.
