Independent UN experts have fired a warning shot at Washington, labeling recent US strikes on suspected Venezuelan drug vessels in international waters as "extrajudicial executions." ⚖️🌊
In recent months, the Trump administration ordered attacks on at least six vessels in the Caribbean, killing at least 27 people. The White House has justified the action by pointing to a "narcoterrorist" threat tied to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
However, the experts — appointed by the UN Human Rights Council — say that even if drug-trafficking allegations hold up, there was no legal basis for lethal force on the high seas. "This violates the law of the sea and amounts to extrajudicial executions," their statement reads.
- Violation of sovereignty: Strikes infringe on Venezuela’s rights over its waters. 🛑
- International law: Article 51 of the UN Charter requires proper legal basis and Security Council notification.
- Covert ops warning: Experts caution that CIA missions in Venezuela could be an even graver breach of the UN Charter.
A senior State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, hit back, calling the experts "advocates for an illegitimate leader who undermines regional security." Washington insists its actions are lawful self-defense under Article 51.
Meanwhile, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil praised the UN statement on Telegram, accusing the US of fabricating enemies to justify a "massacre in the Caribbean."
Tensions have soared as the US builds up forces in the region — guided-missile destroyers, F-35 fighters, a nuclear submarine and around 6,500 troops. Trump also authorized covert CIA operations in Venezuela, according to recent reports.
As debates over legality, sovereignty and security heat up, Latin America watches closely. Will Washington dial back its campaign, or will the UN experts’ rebuke reshape the conversation? 🤔
Reference(s):
Experts term U.S. strikes against Venezuela 'extrajudicial executions'
cgtn.com
