Washington: Independent United Nations experts have criticized recent U.S. military strikes on Venezuelan vessels in international waters, calling the actions “extrajudicial executions” and a violation of international law.

The strikes, ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump, targeted six suspected drug trafficking ships in the Caribbean, leaving 27 people dead. Washington has defended the operations as part of a campaign against what it describes as a “narcoterrorist” threat connected to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

UN experts stressed that the use of lethal force in international waters lacks legal justification, violates Venezuela’s sovereignty, and breaches U.S. obligations under international law.

They also warned that such actions could destabilize the Caribbean region.
In response, U.S. officials dismissed the criticism, arguing that Maduro’s government is illegitimate and that the strikes fall under the right of self-defense outlined in Article 51 of the UN Charter.

The developments come amid an increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, including warships, aircraft, and covert operations. UN experts cautioned that continued actions of this nature could further escalate tensions and violate international law.