Four United Nations human rights experts have voiced strong opposition to the United States’ partial naval blockade of Venezuela, characterizing it as an unlawful act of armed aggression and urging Congressional action to address the situation. The experts articulated in a cohesive statement that the enforcement of unilateral sanctions via military blockades lacks legitimacy under international law.
The United States has mobilized significant military resources in the Caribbean, actively intercepting oil tankers it deems subject to sanctions. The UN experts emphasized that a blockade constitutes a prohibition under the UN Charter, categorizing it as an illegal use of military force against another sovereign nation.
They elaborated on the gravity of this situation, stating that the blockade not only represents a serious application of force but is also explicitly recognized as illegal armed aggression according to the General Assembly’s 1974 Definition of Aggression. This unlawful action poses substantial risks to the fundamental human right to life and other rights for individuals in Venezuela and the surrounding region.
President Donald Trump has accused the Venezuelan leadership of exploiting its oil resources—the country’s primary asset—to finance activities associated with narcoterrorism, human trafficking, and other violent crimes. However, the government in Caracas has resolutely denied any implication in drug trafficking, asserting that Washington’s actions aim to destabilize the presidency of Nicolás Maduro in order to appropriate Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, considered among the largest worldwide.
Divisions deepened as US forces have undertaken numerous aerial strikes against vessels that they allege are involved in transporting drugs, yet have failed to substantiate these claims with credible evidence. The rising conflict has tragically led to over 100 fatalities.
In their call for action, the UN experts insisted that the US Congress must take immediate steps to halt further military assaults and consider lifting the blockade. They also urged the international community to implement measures designed to end the blockade and seek accountability for unlawful killings.
The experts who penned this vital statement include Ben Saul, the special rapporteur focused on protecting human rights while countering terrorism; George Katrougalos, an expert advocating for a democratic and equitable international order; Surya Deva, a development specialist; and Gina Romero, who oversees rights to peaceful assembly and association.
The voices of these esteemed UN figures seek to promote human rights, aiming to foster dialogue and peaceful resolutions in a complex geopolitical context.
#PoliticsNews #WorldNews