Russia and China have strongly condemned the United States during an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, accusing Washington of committing “crimes” and engaging in “bullying” through its military intervention in Venezuela.

The condemnation followed a US-led military operation in Venezuela that included deadly strikes and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

Russia and China raised the issue during a heated UN Security Council session on Monday, calling the operation a serious violation of international law and national sovereignty.

Russia calls US actions ‘crimes’

Russia’s UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said there was “no justification” for the United States’ actions in Venezuela.

“There is no, and can be no justification for the crimes cynically perpetrated by the United States against Venezuela,” Nebenzya told the Council.

He said the capture and transfer of President Maduro breached international norms and signaled a dangerous return to what he described as an era of lawlessness and domination by force.

China says US displayed ‘illegal and bullying’ behaviour

China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Geng Shuang, said Beijing was “deeply shocked” by Washington’s actions.

He described the operation as “illegal and bullying,” warning that it undermines the principles of sovereignty and non-interference enshrined in the UN Charter.

China joined Russia in calling for the immediate release of President Maduro and his wife from US custody.