Amnesty International has raised serious concerns over the human rights implications of the US Trump Administration’s military action in Venezuela, which led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores. The organization warned that the operation most likely violates international law, including the UN Charter, and expressed alarm at statements suggesting US control over Venezuela’s governance and oil resources. It cautioned that such actions undermine the foundations of international legality and sovereignty.
The rights group stressed that the military intervention risks triggering further human rights violations, either through additional US operations or through retaliatory actions by Venezuelan authorities. It emphasized that escalating violence and instability could deepen the suffering of an already vulnerable population and worsen Venezuela’s long-standing humanitarian and rights crisis.
Amnesty International called on the US government to comply fully with international humanitarian and human rights law, prioritizing the protection of civilians and ensuring due process and humane treatment for all individuals deprived of liberty. At the same time, it urged Venezuelan authorities to refrain from further repression and reminded them of their obligation under international law to respect and protect the human rights of all people in the country.
The organization highlighted that human rights defenders and political activists are among those most immediately at risk, noting that many have long faced persecution for opposing abuses committed by the Maduro government. Amnesty International reiterated its solidarity with Venezuelans who have endured years of grave violations, including victims and survivors of abuses and the millions forced to flee the country.
Amnesty International also reaffirmed its long-standing call for independent investigations into crimes and human rights violations committed under Maduro’s rule, and for accountability through impartial judicial processes to ensure justice, reparations, and guarantees of non-repetition. It warned that the capture of Venezuelan leaders by a permanent member of the UN Security Council further erodes the international rules-based order, setting a dangerous precedent that could encourage similar actions elsewhere and increase global instability.
