In a decisive regional response to Venezuela’s political transformation, Belize has formally aligned its position with the CARICOM Heads of Government following Saturday’s military operations that resulted in the removal of President Nicolás Maduro. The Central American nation, having monitored military buildups in the southern Caribbean for four months, now urges restraint and adherence to international law while calling for constructive dialogue to restore constitutional order reflective of Venezuelan citizens’ will.
United Nations Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo addressed the Security Council, characterizing the situation as developing during “a grave time” following the January 3rd United States military intervention. According to DiCarlo’s assessment, US forces conducted operations across Caracas and northern states including Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira, though casualty figures remain undetermined.
President Donald Trump confirmed the “large scale strike against Venezuela, and its leader” via social media, later stating during a press conference that the US would administer the country until “a safe, proper and judicious transition” could be implemented. The ousted Venezuelan government has condemned the action as military aggression and a flagrant violation of the UN Charter.
Notably, Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores are currently detained in New York facing serious criminal charges brought by US authorities. As Belize reiterates its commitment to maintaining a “Zone of Peace” in the region, the government has confirmed the safe return of all Belizean students previously studying in Venezuela.
The unfolding crisis raises fundamental questions about regional stability when constitutional norms are challenged, the appropriate extent of CARICOM’s defense of rule of law without exacerbating tensions, and potential ramifications for Belize’s security, economic interests, and diplomatic relations should Venezuela’s turmoil persist.