Bratislava: Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed strong criticism on Saturday regarding the recent US military action in Venezuela, highlighting what he perceives as a significant erosion of the international order established after World War II.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fico took to the US social media platform Facebook to voice his concerns, stating that international law is increasingly being disregarded, with military force being employed without the endorsement of the UN Security Council. In his post, Fico remarked, "International law does not apply, military power is used without the mandate of the UN Security Council, and everyone who is great and strong does what he wants to promote his own interests."
As the leader of what he described as a small nation, Fico reiterated his steadfast opposition to such disruptions of international law, citing his previous stances on global crises. He referenced his opposition to the Iraq war, his stance on Kosovo's independence, the use of Russian military force in Ukraine, and his perspective on the ongoing developments in Gaza.
Fico further questioned the European Union's response to the US action in Venezuela, urging for a consistent approach in the bloc's handling of international conflicts. He emphasized the need for the EU to apply the same standards it employs when evaluating the situation in Ukraine, stating, "Either the use of American military force in Venezuela will be condemned and be consistent with attitudes to the war in Ukraine, or, as usual, remain pharisaical."
Earlier on Saturday, the Venezuelan government accused the US of striking civilian and military installations across several states, leading to a national declaration. US President Donald Trump later confirmed the "large-scale" military operation, announcing that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been "captured and flown out of the country." The military action followed months of increasing US pressure on Maduro, whom Washington accuses of involvement in drug trafficking, allegations that Maduro has denied while expressing willingness for dialogue.