A United Nations Special Rapporteur has strongly condemned the recent United States operation targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, labeling it an act of “kidnapping of a head of state” and a blatant violation of international law.
George Katrougalos, the UN Special Rapporteur on the International Order, stated in an interview that even with alleged serious international crimes, heads of state are entitled to full immunity. He emphasized that the operation constitutes a clear breach of international law on multiple levels, citing the unjustified use of force against a sovereign nation.
“Of particular concern is the declaration by US President Donald Trump that his country will manage Venezuela’s affairs for the foreseeable future. This represents a violation of the principle of self-determination and national sovereignty,” Katrougalos stated.
The Special Rapporteur also drew attention to other recent instances of international law violations, including the bombing of Lebanon, the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, and the ongoing actions in the Gaza Strip.
Katrougalos dismissed the justifications offered for the operation, asserting that the true motivation behind the US aggression is Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, coupled with President Trump’s desire to impose American hegemony. He warned that the events in Venezuela could potentially undermine the entire global order.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the Special Rapporteur expressed confidence in the resilience of the United Nations. He affirmed that the UN remains the primary instrument for addressing such behaviors, as “might does not make right.”
“Injustice will not prevail,” Katrougalos asserted, citing historical examples such as the US defeat in Vietnam and the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa. He concluded by emphasizing that the situation in Venezuela represents not only a violation of international law but also a disregard for democratic principles, stressing that “the Venezuelan people alone have the right to determine their future and destiny.”
