International law cannot be selective, writes Hannah Walker, while Celia Cashman calls for an alliance to challenge to US actions in Venezuela, and Charlie Owen for clarity of language
Donald Trump’s own description of US actions in Venezuela – that it will “run” the country, remaining until Washington decides a political transition has occurred, and installing US oil companies to control production – outlines conduct that is plainly illegal under international law and sets a dangerous precedent (Donald Trump warns of ‘big price to pay’ if Caracas fails to toe line, 4 January).
The UN charter prohibits the use or threat of force against another state, except in self-defence or with security council authorisation. Neither applies here. However illegitimate a government may be, regime change by invasion, occupation or foreign administration is unlawful. That rule exists precisely to prevent powerful states imposing political outcomes by force.
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