United Nations Set for High-Stakes Talks Following Maduro's Removal

Diplomatic tensions are rising in New York as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) prepares to convene swiftly following the dramatic capture of Nicolas Maduro.

Under the presidency of Somalia for January, the Council has confirmed it will hold an emergency meeting on Monday at 10:00 am local time (1500 GMT). The session was called to address "Threats to international peace and security," a direct response to the recent United States military operation that resulted in the detention of the Venezuelan leader and his wife.

Global Reactions and Calls for Action

Momentum for the meeting began with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who vocally rejected the US intervention. In a statement on X, Petro condemned the violation of sovereignty in Latin America, arguing that internal conflicts must be resolved by the people themselves rather than foreign powers.

"As members of the United Nations Security Council, we seek to convene the Council," Petro stated, emphasizing the principle of self-determination as the bedrock of the UN system.

UN Secretary-General Sounds Alarm

Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, has expressed deep concern regarding the implications of this military strike. Through his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres warned that such actions set a "dangerous precedent." He urged all parties to strictly adhere to the UN Charter and international law, regardless of the internal situation in Venezuela.

Details of the Operation

The geopolitical landscape shifted on Saturday when US President Donald Trump confirmed a "large-scale strike" aimed at removing Maduro. Social media posts from the President showed the ousted leader aboard the USS Iwo Jima, while additional footage released by the White House depicted Maduro in handcuffs, interacting with law enforcement.

Transition of Power in Caracas

Back in Venezuela, the political vacuum is already being filled. The nation's Supreme Court has swiftly ordered Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to assume the duties of acting president. The court cited Maduro's "material and temporary impossibility" to govern as the legal basis for the transfer of power.