Statements
Peace Boat Statement Condemning the U.S. Attack on Venezuela and the Detention of Its President, and Calling for a Peaceful Resolution Based on International Law
On January 3, the United States launched a military attack on Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, detained President Nicolás Maduro, and forcibly transferred him to the United States. U.S. President Trump has stated that Mr. Maduro will be put on trial in the United States and that, for the time being, the United States will be involved in the governance of Venezuela. We are shocked by these developments and deeply concerned about the casualties caused by the U.S. military action, as well as the political and social turmoil likely to follow in Venezuela.
Such actions by the United States constitute an act of aggression in violation of the United Nations Charter. They clearly contravene fundamental principles of international law, including the right of peoples to self-determination, sovereign equality, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and the prohibition against the use or threat of force—just as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine does. We strongly condemn the U.S. government for taking such actions and call for a peaceful resolution of the situation in accordance with international law.
If actions that seek to overthrow another country’s government by force are allowed, the entire world could plunge into disorder. Human rights and democracy must be upheld by peace, not by military force.
We strongly urge the U.S. government to immediately halt all military actions and interventions, and we call on all parties concerned to refrain from any actions that could further exacerbate the situation. The issues at hand must be resolved through peaceful dialogue and negotiations. The United Nations and relevant international organizations should fulfill their roles toward that end.
We will also closely monitor the impact of this situation on the people of Venezuela and neighbouring countries. Peace Boat intends to continue its cooperation at the civil society level—including humanitarian aid—by building on the friendships developed through our global voyages with people in the country and region.
January 4, 2026
Peace Boat