KUALA LUMPUR: Amanah Youth condemns what it describes as unilateral military action by the United States, allegedly leading to the arrest and forced removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro following a large-scale attack in Caracas.
Its national exco member Sheikh Khuzaifah Sheik Abu Bakar says the action, ordered by President Donald Trump, is a clear violation of the United Nations (UN) Charter.
“Any legal dispute or criminal accusation against a national leader should be resolved through recognised international court mechanisms, not through physical intrusion and political kidnapping.
“This US action not only undermines stability in the Latin American region but also sets a dangerous precedent in international relations.
“This ‘cowboy diplomacy’ sends a signal that military might can override the rule of law,” he says in a statement today.
Previously, the US administration under President Trump stepped up military operations in waters near Venezuela, including targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking and intercepting Venezuelan oil tankers.
The United States has defended its actions by citing Article 51 of the UN Charter, which allows for self-defence in the event of an armed attack.
However, the US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, insists the operation is not intended to change the Venezuelan government, but rather to bring justice against Maduro, who is alleged to be involved in criminal and terrorist activities.
Sheikh Khuzaifah also voices concern over the safety of Venezuelan civilians following reports of explosions in residential areas of Caracas, which reportedly resulted in deaths and widespread fear among the local population.
In this regard, he says Amanah Youth demands immediate proof of life for President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and calls for their human rights to be respected in accordance with international conventions.
“The Malaysian government, through the Foreign Affairs Ministry, has lodged an official protest against the incursion at the United Nations.
“We also urge the international community to press for the immediate withdrawal of foreign troops from Venezuelan soil to prevent further bloodshed.
“We stand firmly by the principles of universal justice and reject any form of modern imperialism that threatens global harmony,” he says.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
