Mexico Urges UN to Avert Violence Amid Venezuela Crisis

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called on the United Nations to take decisive action to prevent violence in Venezuela. Speaking at a press conference on December 17, 2023, Sheinbaum emphasized the need for the UN to fulfill its responsibilities in fostering peaceful resolutions. Her comments came in response to escalating tensions as the United States, under President Donald Trump, intensified its military presence in the region.

“The United Nations has been conspicuously absent. It must assume its role to prevent any bloodshed and to always seek the peaceful resolution of conflicts,” Sheinbaum stated. This appeal follows Washington’s announcement of a blockade targeting “sanctioned oil tankers” associated with Venezuela, further straining the already volatile situation.

The US has been amassing military resources in the Caribbean, claiming the operation aims to combat drug trafficking. However, Caracas perceives this buildup as an attempt to undermine the government of Nicolás Maduro, whom many nations, including the US, regard as an illegitimate leader. The Venezuelan government has accused the US of attempting to “steal” its oil resources through such military maneuvers.

Amid these developments, Sheinbaum reaffirmed Mexico’s stance against foreign intervention in Venezuela. “Regardless of opinions about Maduro’s leadership, we reject foreign interference. We call for dialogue and peace to be used in any international dispute, and not intervention. That is our position by conviction and by our Constitution,” she added.

The situation in Venezuela has drawn international attention, with Chile’s newly elected president, José Antonio Kast, expressing support for efforts to end Maduro’s government. This collaboration is seen as an extension of Trump’s regional influence at a time when he is contemplating military action on Venezuelan soil.

On the same day as Sheinbaum’s statements, the US Embassy in Ecuador announced a temporary operation involving US Air Force personnel in the Pacific port city of Manta. The embassy did not disclose specific details regarding the number of personnel or equipment involved. This operation aligns with a broader campaign that has seen the US military target alleged drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

Notably, recent airstrikes on three vessels in the eastern Pacific resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, according to US military reports. This incident adds to the growing list of casualties linked to the US’s controversial campaign against drug trafficking, which has reportedly led to the destruction of at least 26 small vessels and claimed the lives of approximately 95 people since early September.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful of developments in Venezuela, particularly regarding the role and effectiveness of the UN in mediating conflicts and promoting peace in the region.