UN chief Guterres urges restraint over US blockade of Venezuela

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for restraint and de-escalation following the United States' declaration of a total naval blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers. The UN urges all parties to resolve differences peacefully and honor their obligations under international law.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appealed for calm and restraint in response to the escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela. The call comes after US President Donald Trump announced a "total and complete blockade" on Venezuelan oil tankers, a move Caracas has condemned as an act of "international piracy" and an attempt to seize its natural resources.
UN's Call for Peaceful Resolution and Legal Compliance
Speaking through his spokesperson Farhan Haq on Wednesday, the UN chief emphasized the need to "avoid any further escalation" and called for "the immediate de-escalation of the situation." Haq stated that Guterres "believes that any difference must be resolved by peaceful means" and urged all sides to honor their obligations under international law, including the UN Charter, to safeguard regional peace. The Secretary-General is reportedly following the situation closely and engaging with relevant parties.
Context of Military Buildup and Prior Incidents
The diplomatic intervention follows months of heightened US military activity in the Caribbean Sea off Venezuela's coast, including strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking and the December 10 seizure of a sanctioned oil tanker. President Trump has also suggested the possibility of future land strikes on Venezuelan soil. Venezuela has denounced the US actions as a "grotesque" violation of its sovereignty, accusing Washington of attempting to appropriate the country's vast oil wealth.
Broader Implications for Regional Stability
The UN's statement underscores the international community's concern over a potential military confrontation in South America. The situation presents a significant test for multilateral diplomacy and the principles of sovereignty and peaceful conflict resolution as outlined in the UN Charter.
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