Brazil Condemns US Military Intervention in Venezuela, Urges Respect for Sovereignty and Peaceful Resolution

Brazil has strongly condemned the recent US-led military intervention in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, labeling the action as a serious violation of international law and Venezuelan sovereignty. During a UN Security Council meeting on January 5, Ambassador Sérgio Danese articulated Brazil's firm opposition, rejecting the rationale that "the ends justify the means," as he argued this undermines legitimacy and opens the door for stronger nations to impose their will on weaker states. Danese emphasized that the United Nations Charter explicitly prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity and political independence of any country unless strictly authorized, highlighting that bombings and seizures of a sitting president cross an unacceptable line.

Brazil, under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, insisted on the need for solutions respecting Venezuelan self-determination and international law, warning that accepting such military actions risks escalating violence and eroding multilateralism. Despite diplomatic challenges, including Brazil's evolving relations with the US, the Brazilian government intends to advocate for a peaceful transition and elections in Venezuela, distancing itself from Maduro’s regime while condemning forcible removals. Ambassador Danese reiterated Brazil's commitment to upholding the rule of law and called on the Security Council to respond decisively.

Former President José Sarney also criticized the invasion, calling it "barbaric" and supporting Brazil's balanced stance emphasizing democracy. Brazil's official statement described the US intervention as a grave affront to international norms and warned of the risk of regional instability arising from shifting towards a "law of the strongest" approach.

In summary, Brazil's position is clear: military interventions violate Venezuela's sovereignty and international law. Brazil advocates for peaceful, diplomatic solutions led by the Venezuelan people themselves, underscoring the importance of regional peace and adherence to international legal frameworks.