The United Nations has voiced grave concern over escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela in the southern Caribbean, calling on all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to international law.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said Tuesday that the organization is closely monitoring the situation amid a surge in confrontational rhetoric and growing military activity in the region.

During a press briefing, Dujarric declined to comment on Washington’s recent move to label a Venezuela-based group as a terrorist organization, noting that the UN holds “no position on unilateral decisions by the United States.” The Biden administration on Monday officially designated the so-called Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization — an entity Venezuelan officials insist does not exist, dismissing the action as “ridiculous.”

Dujarric warned that mounting hostility risks further destabilizing the southern Caribbean, stressing that the UN is “concerned about the increasingly confrontational rhetoric which risks heightening regional unease.”

He underscored the need for all UN member states to fully comply with their obligations under international law, adding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres continues to encourage diplomatic engagement.

According to Dujarric, Guterres urges states to create opportunities for dialogue and work toward “a peaceful way forward.”

Relations between Washington and Caracas have deteriorated sharply since U.S. President Donald Trump authorized a major military deployment in the Caribbean last August, aimed at targeting drug cartels and disrupting trafficking routes allegedly linked to President Nicolás Maduro.

The U.S. has expanded its military footprint across Latin America in recent months, deploying Marines, warships, fighter and bomber aircraft, submarines and surveillance drones. The moves have fueled widespread speculation that Washington could be preparing for a potential military strike on Venezuela. However, according to Axios, Trump has told advisers he intends to speak directly with Maduro.

For his part, President Maduro has signaled openness to diplomacy, saying that Venezuela is prepared for “face-to-face dialogue” with Washington.

The UN continues to call on both sides to lower tensions and pursue peaceful, negotiated solutions. (ILKHA)