politics
January 3, 2026
Is there any legal justification for the US attack on Venezuela?
International law experts expect Washington to claim self-defence and face little serious pushback
TL;DR
- Donald Trump announced US troops conducted a "large-scale strike" in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
- Maduro and his wife have been indicted in New York on terrorism and drugs charges.
- International law experts state the US operation likely violates Article 2(4) of the UN charter, prohibiting military force against other countries.
- Experts describe the action as a "crime of aggression" and an "unlawful use of force."
- The US claim of self-defense is disputed, as experts see no evidence of a threat to the US and view it as an invasion for regime change.
- The UN Security Council's effectiveness is questioned due to the US veto power, preventing potential sanctions.
- Experts warn that a lack of consequences for the US action could embolden other countries, citing potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is urged to condemn the US action and uphold international law and Nuremberg principles.
Continue reading the original article