The Monocle Daily Venezuela calls on the UN over ‘ongoing US aggression’. Plus: how should governments deal with hate speech?
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Dec 18, 2025 Join Elizabeth Braw, a Senior Fellow specializing in defense and security, and Yossi Mekkelberg, a Senior Consulting Fellow at Chatham House, as they dive into the geopolitical tensions surrounding Venezuela's UN appeal over US naval actions. They discuss the complexities of international law and the implications of US military presence. The conversation shifts to Australia's new hate speech laws post-Bondi Beach attack, exploring the challenges of defining hate speech and balancing free speech with regulation. A thought-provoking analysis awaits!
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Venezuela Frames US Moves As Legal Issue
- Venezuela argues US maritime actions may breach international maritime law and seeks UN scrutiny.
- Elizabeth Braw says shadow-fleet vessels retain navigation rights despite sanction risks.
UN Votes Can Be Largely Performatory
- Security Council votes are often performative when great powers clash and vetoes loom.
- Yossi Mekelberg says international law often falters against how major powers behave.
Naval Presence Signals Regime-Change Ambitions
- The US naval build-up aims beyond tactical goals toward regime change in Venezuela.
- Elizabeth Braw warns small concessions won't satisfy an administration seeking regime removal.