Tensions between the United States and Venezuela escalated dramatically during an emergency session of the U.N. Security Council on Friday. The Trump administration defended its recent military strikes against alleged drug cartels, vowing to use its “full might” to combat narcoterrorism. Meanwhile, Venezuela accused the U.S. of preparing for an armed attack, citing the deadly strikes on four boats that Washington claims were involved in drug trafficking. Venezuela’s U.N. Ambassador, Samuel Moncada, warned that the U.S. actions threatened regional and international peace, security, and stability. The U.S. justified the strikes, which reportedly killed 21 people, as a necessary act of self-defense against well-armed and organized cartels. Venezuela’s request for the emergency meeting followed a significant buildup of U.S. maritime forces in the Caribbean, a move described as unprecedented in recent years. While Venezuela received backing from allies Russia and China, other Security Council members urged de-escalation and adherence to the U.N. Charter, which emphasizes respect for sovereignty and peaceful dispute resolution. The U.S. delegation, led by Political Counselor John Kelley, reiterated President Trump’s stance that the military operations were consistent with international law. However, the council is unlikely to take action against the U.S. due to its veto power. France and Russia expressed concerns over unilateral military actions and the potential threat to international peace, with Russia describing the situation as increasingly acute. The meeting occurred just a day after U.S. Senate Republicans blocked legislation aimed at limiting Trump’s authority to use military force against drug traffickers.
US clashes with Venezuela and allies at emergency UN meeting on US strikes in Caribbean
