Wed Dec 24 15:39:05 UTC 2025: ## UN Experts Condemn US Naval Blockade of Venezuela, Demand Investigation
New York, NY – United Nations human rights experts have issued a scathing condemnation of the United States’ partial naval blockade of Venezuela, labeling it an illegal act of armed aggression and a violation of international law. In a joint statement released Wednesday, the experts called for a thorough investigation into alleged human rights violations stemming from the blockade and urged the US Congress to intervene.
The experts, including Ben Saul, Special Rapporteur on protecting human rights while countering “terrorism,” argued that the US deployment of military forces in the Caribbean, used to intercept Venezuelan oil tankers, constitutes a prohibited use of force under the UN Charter. They further stated that the blockade meets the definition of illegal armed aggression as defined by the UN General Assembly in 1974.
“There is no right to enforce unilateral sanctions through an armed blockade,” the experts stated. “The illegal use of force, and threats to use further force at sea and on land, gravely endanger the human right to life and other rights in Venezuela and the region.”
The condemnation comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. The US, under President Donald Trump, accuses Venezuela of using its vast oil resources to finance “narcoterrorism, human trafficking, murders and kidnappings.” The Venezuelan government denies these allegations, claiming that Washington is seeking to overthrow President Nicolas Maduro and seize the country’s oil reserves.
Since September, US forces have conducted numerous airstrikes on boats allegedly transporting drugs, resulting in over 100 deaths. The UN experts have raised serious concerns about these incidents, stating that “These killings amount to violations of the right to life. They must be investigated and those responsible held accountable.”
In addition to calling for an investigation into the killings, the UN experts urged the US Congress to lift the blockade and prevent further attacks. They also called on other nations to take steps to halt the blockade and bring those responsible for the alleged violations to justice.
The statement was signed by Ben Saul, George Katrougalos, Surya Deva, and Gina Romero, all UN human rights experts specializing in areas such as counter-terrorism, international order, development, and freedom of assembly. Their joint condemnation adds significant weight to the growing international criticism of the US policy towards Venezuela and its potential impact on human rights.
First Piper 