Ghana, AU Decry U.S. Action in Venezuela as Breach of International Law
Ghana has condemned the United States military intervention in Venezuela, aligning itself with the African Union’s call for restraint, dialogue and respect for international law amid escalating tensions in the South American nation.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said it was alarmed by reports of an unauthorised military operation and the subsequent detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, actions it said violate the United Nations Charter and undermine the sovereignty and political independence of states.
Accra’s position mirrors concerns raised by the African Union, which said it was closely monitoring developments in Venezuela, including reports of attacks on state institutions and the detention of the country’s elected leader. The continental body warned that such actions risk destabilising not only Venezuela but the broader international order.
The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to the core principles of international law, stressing the inviolability of territorial integrity, respect for constitutional order and the right of peoples to self-determination. It said lasting solutions to Venezuela’s political and economic challenges can only be achieved through inclusive political dialogue among Venezuelans themselves, without external coercion.
Ghana echoed that position, cautioning that unilateral use of force and attempts to impose political outcomes from outside set a dangerous precedent reminiscent of colonial-era interventions. The government said such actions erode multilateral norms and weaken international institutions designed to manage conflict and political transitions.
Both Ghana and the African Union emphasised the importance of dialogue, peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to constitutional and institutional frameworks. The AU urged all stakeholders to act with moderation and responsibility to avoid further escalation and preserve regional and global stability.
Venezuela has been mired in a prolonged crisis marked by economic contraction, sanctions, political polarisation and mass emigration. While external pressure has been justified by some countries as a means to restore democracy, the African Union has consistently maintained that sustainable peace and stability cannot be imposed by military means.
Ghana said it would continue to support diplomatic efforts under international and regional frameworks and called on the global community to prioritise peace, mutual respect and the rule of law.
