US Military Actions in Venezuela
On January 3, the United States conducted military operations in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. US forces were active in Caracas and the northern states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira. The extent of casualties resulting from these actions has not been determined.
US President Donald Trump announced on social media that a "large scale strike against Venezuela, and its leader, President Nicolás Maduro" had been conducted. During a subsequent press conference, President Trump stated, "We are going to run the country until such time that we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition."
The Venezuelan government characterized the US action as military aggression carried out in civilian and military areas, asserting it constituted a flagrant violation of the UN Charter and posed a threat to international and regional peace and security.
Detention of President Maduro
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are currently being held in New York. US authorities have accused both individuals of serious criminal offenses.
Background and Context
The situation in Venezuela has been a subject of regional and international attention for several years. Increased focus followed the contested presidential elections in July 2024. A panel of electoral experts, appointed at the Venezuelan Government’s request to accompany the elections, reported serious issues regarding the process. On December 23, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights documented serious violations in Venezuela.
On January 3, Venezuelan interim President Delcy RodrĂguez invoked an emergency decree throughout the national territory, granting additional security powers to the government. These developments followed a period of heightened tensions that began in mid-August.
International Law Considerations
The UN Charter includes a prohibition against the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. International law also contains provisions to address issues such as illicit narcotics traffic, resource disputes, and human rights concerns.
Venezuela's Internal Situation
Venezuela has experienced decades of internal instability, marked by social and economic turmoil. Millions of its citizens have departed the country amidst these conditions.