United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over a possible intensification of instability in Venezuela, warning of regional repercussions following the United States’ military intervention and detention of President Nicolás Maduro.

Addressing the UN Security Council on Monday, Guterres said the situation unfolding in Venezuela comes at a “grave time” for international peace and security.

His remarks were delivered by Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, days after US forces carried out a military operation on January 3 across Caracas and several northern Venezuelan states.

The operation reportedly involved a large-scale strike and the seizure of President Maduro, though the number of casualties remains unclear.

Concerns over use of force

The UN chief stressed that the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state is prohibited under international law.

He warned that the principles governing the use of force “have not been respected” in the recent US action, emphasizing that full adherence to the UN Charter is essential.

“The maintenance of international peace and security depends on the continued commitment of all Member States to the Charter,” Guterres said.

Venezuela’s future at stake

While details of the military operation have been widely reported, Guterres said the immediate future of Venezuela remains uncertain.

He cautioned that the situation could lead to deepening instability, regional spillover effects, and a dangerous precedent for relations among states.

Venezuela has described the US action as blatant military aggression and a flagrant violation of the UN Charter, posing a serious threat to regional peace.

President Nicolás Maduro is currently being held in New York and is due to appear in court on Monday.

US authorities have accused Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, of serious drug trafficking and weapons-related offences. The court appearance is scheduled just miles away from UN Headquarters in Manhattan.

US President Donald Trump has stated that Washington would “run the country” until a political transition is secured.

Call for inclusive democratic dialogue

Highlighting Venezuela’s long-standing political and economic turmoil, the UN chief noted that democracy has been weakened and millions of citizens have been forced to flee the country over the years.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Guterres said it remains possible to prevent a wider and more destructive conflict.

He urged all Venezuelan stakeholders to engage in inclusive dialogue that allows the people to determine their future, grounded in human rights, the rule of law, and respect for sovereignty.

In closing, the Secretary-General emphasized that international law offers mechanisms to address issues such as human rights abuses, illicit trafficking, and resource disputes.

“In situations as confused and complex as this, it is important to stick to principles,” he said, stressing that the power of law — not force — must prevail.