Pakistan has expressed serious concern over the unfolding situation in Venezuela, warning that unilateral military action sets dangerous precedents. Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Pakistan’s acting Permanent Representative to the United Nations, addressed the Security Council during an emergency meeting on January 5, 2026, emphasizing that sustainable solutions require dialogue and diplomacy. He noted that the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by United States forces on January 3 challenges the principles of sovereignty and international law.
The envoy highlighted that such unilateral operations risk destabilizing the region and may produce unpredictable consequences over time. He stressed that durable political solutions can only be achieved through peaceful means and full respect for the will of the Venezuelan people. According to Jadoon, all parties must exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and pursue co-existence while making use of sincere offers of mediation.
Pakistan’s representative affirmed the country’s commitment to supporting the Security Council’s responsibility to maintain international peace and security. He added that the welfare, stability, and prosperity of the Venezuelan people should remain the overriding objective of all diplomatic and political efforts.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also expressed concern about possible intensification of instability following Maduro’s capture. He warned that the operation could set a troubling precedent for state relations and urged all Venezuelan actors to engage in inclusive democratic dialogue. Guterres offered support for peaceful conflict resolution and emphasized adherence to international law.
Colombia condemned the US operation as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity. Colombian Ambassador Leonor Zalabata Torres called the raid an “act of aggression” and stressed that no justification exists for the unilateral use of force. Legal experts have noted that the operation lacked UN Security Council authorization, did not have Venezuelan consent, and did not meet the criteria for self-defense against an armed attack.
The Security Council meeting underscored global concerns regarding international norms and the potential fallout from military interventions without multilateral approval. Pakistan, alongside other members, highlighted the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to the United Nations Charter. Officials stressed that peaceful engagement and respect for sovereignty are critical to preventing further destabilization in Venezuela and the surrounding region.
The situation continues to draw international attention, as member states evaluate the implications of unilateral action on regional security, international law, and future global precedents.
