On Saturday, the United States launched a large-scale military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, who were subsequently taken out of the country. This unprecedented event has sent shockwaves through the international community. US President Donald Trump himself announced the action, sharing an image of Maduro on social media, reportedly aboard the USS Iwo Jima warship, while the swiftness and nature of this intervention have raised significant questions about international law and national sovereignty, leading to immediate global repercussions.
UNSC Convenes Emergency Session
In the wake of the US military intervention, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has decided to convene an emergency meeting on Monday. The session, to be chaired by Somalia, is scheduled for 10 AM (8:30 PM IST) and will focus on "threats to international peace and security. " During this critical meeting, member states are expected to discuss the implications of the US action, explore potential future steps, and seek measures to ensure the maintenance of international peace and security, while somalia currently holds the rotating presidency of the UNSC, which comprises 15 member states, including five permanent and ten non-permanent members.
Colombia's President Demands Meeting
Colombian President Gustavo Petro was among the first to demand an emergency meeting of the UNSC. He vehemently condemned the US action, stating that it constitutes an attack on Venezuela's sovereignty and the security of Latin America as a whole. President Petro emphasized that internal disputes within any nation should be resolved peacefully by its own people, without external military interference. He further asserted that the US action directly contravenes the fundamental principles of. The United Nations Charter, which upholds the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states.
Images and Video of Maduro in Custody
The image of President Maduro, shared by US President Donald Trump, showing him on a warship, quickly circulated globally, highlighting the dramatic nature of the events. Subsequently, the White House-affiliated Rapid Response team released a video depicting Maduro in handcuffs, being escorted for judicial proceedings. In the video, Maduro was reportedly heard wishing "Happy New Year" and "Good Night" to the enforcement officers, an unusual detail given the gravity of his situation. These visuals underscored the severity of the incident and the direct involvement of US forces in his apprehension.
Political Transition in Venezuela
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed profound concern over the developments in Venezuela. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, conveyed the Secretary-General's warning that such unilateral military actions could lead to severe and unpredictable consequences for the entire region. Dujarric further stated that this incident sets a dangerous precedent and reiterated the imperative for all member states to strictly adhere to international. Law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, which promotes peaceful relations and non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations.
Following President Maduro's arrest, Venezuela has witnessed rapid political changes. The country's Supreme Court has issued an order for Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to assume the duties and powers of the acting president. The court's decision cited President Maduro's temporary inability to fulfill his responsibilities, necessitating this constitutional measure. This step aims to fill the power vacuum and ensure governmental continuity in. Venezuela as the nation navigates an unprecedented crisis, with its political future now uncertain.
