Global Dispatches -- World News That Matters Is This an Existential Moment for the United Nations? | To Save Us From Hell
Jan 8, 2026
Tensions are high as the Security Council reacts to the U.S. military operation in Venezuela that saw Nicolás Maduro taken captive. The discussion dives into which countries condemned the U.S. action and why Colombia felt particularly vulnerable. They explore the implications for the United Nations and whether America's foreign policy can coexist with its principles. Strong condemnations from Latin American nations highlight a historical context of intervention, raising questions about sovereignty and the potential existential crisis for the UN's future.
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Colombia Calls Emergency Session
- Colombia called the Security Council emergency meeting after the U.S. operation in Venezuela captured Nicolás Maduro.
- Colombia's proximity and refugee risks made it an immediate and directly threatened participant in the Council session.
Somalia Presides Over Heated Briefing
- Somalia held the rotating Security Council presidency for the emergency meeting and presided over briefers including Latin American states and U.S.-selected Venezuelan civil society.
- Russia invited Jeff Sachs as an unusual anti-American briefer during the session.
Broad Condemnation, Not Blanket Support
- Most Security Council members condemned the U.S. action as a clear breach of the UN Charter while also criticizing Maduro's repression.
- Latin American states, Denmark, and South Africa gave notably strong statements against the operation.
