THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the United Nations are monitoring the military action in Venezuela, warning of potential implications for the wider Caribbean and Latin American region.
In a statement issued early on January 3, CARICOM said its Conference of Heads of Government convened urgently after receiving reports of developments in Venezuela.
“The Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM met very early on 3 January following reports of military action in Venezuela,” the regional body said. “CARICOM is actively monitoring the situation which is of grave concern to the Region with possible implications for neighbouring countries.”
The statement added that CARICOM will continue to keep the Region informed as more details become available.
Meanwhile, the United Nations signalled alarm at what it described as a dangerous escalation.
Speaking on behalf of the UN Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, said the situation raises serious concerns about regional stability and the observance of international law.
“The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the recent escalation in Venezuela, culminating with today’s United States military action in the country, which has potential worrying implications for the Region,” Dujarric said.
He added that, regardless of the internal dynamics within Venezuela, the reported actions set a troubling international precedent.
“Independently of the situation in Venezuela, these developments constitute a dangerous precedent,” the spokesman stated.
According to Dujarric, the Secretary-General has reiterated the importance of strict adherence to international legal norms.
“The Secretary-General continues to emphasise the importance of full respect — by all — of international law, including the UN Charter,” he said, adding that there are serious concerns that “the rules of international law have not been respected.”
The UN further urged restraint and dialogue among all parties involved in Venezuela’s ongoing crisis.

“The Secretary-General calls on all actors in Venezuela to engage in inclusive dialogue, in full respect of human rights and the rule of law,” Dujarric said.