WCC condemns US attacks in Venezuela, calls for respect for international law

Informal housing on the hills around Caracas, Venezuela. Photo: Sean Hawkey/Life on Earth

Source: WCC

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev Prof Dr Jerry Pillay has strongly condemned recent attacks carried out by the United States of America in Venezuela, including the capture and detention of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, describing the actions as "stunningly flagrant violations of international law."

In a statement, Dr Pillay warned that the attacks set a dangerous global precedent by normalizing the use of armed force to achieve political objectives.

"These actions set a dangerous precedent and example for others who seek to shrug off all constraints against the use of armed aggression and brute force to achieve political objectives," wrote Pillay.

He called for an immediate cessation of attacks and for renewed respect for the principles of international law and state sovereignty. It also appealed to international bodies to take swift action.

"The World Council of Churches calls urgently for the cessation of such attacks, for respect for the principles of international law and sovereignty of States, and for the resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy rather than by armed violence," the statement continued, urging the United Nations and the Organization of American States to intervene to ensure compliance with international charters and conventions.

The statement emphasized the broader global implications of the events.

"In these dangerous and uncertain times, the world needs wise and courageous leaders for peace, rather than the proliferation of conflicts and the normalization of international illegality," reads the statement.

Read the full statement: https://oikoumene.org/resources/documents/wcc-statement-on-venezuela