Venezuela: Urgent Security Council Briefing Explored in ‘What’s In Blue’ Report

The ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the United States have escalated significantly, prompting urgent discussions within the UN Security Council. An open briefing under the “Threats to International Peace and Security” agenda is scheduled for this afternoon, December 23. Venezuela initially requested this meeting in a letter dated December 17, citing what it describes as increasing aggressions from the US.

Background on the US-Venezuela Tensions

Since mid-August, the geopolitical landscape surrounding Venezuela has been increasingly strained. The United States has augmented its military presence in the southern Caribbean, positioned off Venezuela’s coast. This bolstered military activity is characterized by the US targeting boats implicated in drug trafficking. Reports indicate that from September 2 to December 19, the US executed 28 strikes against these vessels, resulting in over 100 fatalities—numbers reported by US officials but not verified by independent sources.

International Human Rights Concerns

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has criticized these military actions. He has stated they contravene international human rights law and called for the US to cease these operations to prevent extrajudicial killings. The US administration argues its actions are legally justified, framing the operations as part of an armed conflict against drug cartels, which are labeled terrorist organizations.

Recent Developments Leading to the UN Meeting

• October 10 Briefing: The Security Council first addressed these escalating tensions. Venezuela requested this session to dispute US claims, alleging that they aimed to destabilize the country for its natural resources.
• November 29 Directive: President Donald Trump announced the closure of Venezuelan airspace, calling it a violation of the UN Charter.
• December 16 Statements: Trump asserted that Venezuela is surrounded by a significant military presence, further escalating the political rhetoric.

Venezuela has firmly rejected US claims regarding its oil reserves, asserting that such actions violate the principles of the UN Charter related to national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Moros communicated these grievances directly to UN Secretary-General António Guterres on December 17.

Participants in the Security Council Meeting

Today’s Security Council session is set to include participation from Assistant Secretary-General Mohamed Khaled Khiari, who will provide updates on developments since the October meeting. The session will likely see a reiteration of calls for de-escalation and dialogue. The dynamics in the Security Council may reflect previous meetings, with varying perspectives on the situation.

Regional and Global Implications

China and Russia are anticipated to support Venezuela’s position and condemn US actions, framing them as destabilizing regional peace. Many Council members have previously called for dialogue and adherence to international laws while opposing any actions that undermine the region’s tranquility.

As tensions remain high, the Security Council meeting today serves as a critical platform for addressing the complexities of US-Venezuela relations and exploring solutions through international cooperation. The situation not only impacts those two nations but also carries broader implications for regional stability in Latin America.