United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed serious concern over reported U.S. military action in Venezuela, warning that the escalation could thr£aten regional stability and weaken international law.

In a statement delivered by UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres described the development as a “dangerous precedent,” stressing that all parties must respect international law and the UN Charter. He noted particular concern that established rules governing the use of force may not have been upheld.

Guterres urged Venezuelan actors to step back from confrontation and pursue inclusive dialogue rooted in respect for human rights and the rule of law.

Meanwhile, U.S. Congressman Riley M. Moore defended the action against President Nicolás Maduro’s government, accusing it of enabling drug trafficking and allowing rival powers such as China, Russia and Iran to gain influence in the region. He warned that the United States would no longer tolerate such threats.