A3 JOINT-STATEMENT AT THE UNSC BRIEFING ON THE SITUATION IN VENEZUELA

  Delivered by

H.E. Ambassador Lewis G. Brown II, Permanent Representative of Liberia to the United Nations

5th January 2026

Thank you Mr. President,

1. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3 members, namely the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, and my own country, Liberia.

2. We thank the Presidency for promptly convening this important meeting.

3. We congratulate Somalia on assuming the Presidency of the Security Council this month and warmly welcome the new members.

4. The A3 appreciates USG DiCarlo’s comprehensive briefing and listened carefully to the remarks offered by civil society representatives.

5. We also welcome the representative of Venezuela and the representatives of the region to this meeting.

Mr. President,

6. The A3 aligns itself with the recent Communiqué of the African Union on the situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and continues to monitor developments there with deep concern.

7. In particular, we note reports regarding the detention of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, and incidents involving Venezuelan institutions.

8. Such developments present serious challenges not only to Venezuela’s internal stability and underscore the imperative to safeguard the broader peace and security of the region.

9. The A3 remains steadfast in its commitment to the fundamental principles of international law, including the full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations in the interest of regional stability and international peace.

10. We believe these are essential foundations for international cooperation and peaceful coexistence.

11. Our position underscores the importance of dialogue, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for constitutional and institutional frameworks.

Mr. President,

12. The complex situation in Venezuela requires a comprehensive response that is both inclusive and nationally owned.

13. We continue to hold that a sustainable and peaceful resolution can only be found through constructive dialogue among Venezuelans themselves, with genuine respect for the aspirations and rights of the Venezuelan people and with constructive the support of the international community.

14. The A3 expresses its solidarity with the people of Venezuela and reiterates the African Union’s commitment to peace, stability, and mutual respect among nations and regions.

15. It’s important for all parties, both within Venezuela and in the broader international community, to exercise restraint and responsibility, upholding international law and avoiding any action that could escalate tensions or threaten regional stability.

16. The A3 stands ready to support all efforts, within this Council and in cooperation with regional partners, to facilitate a peaceful, inclusive, and lasting resolution to the situation in Venezuela.

I thank you.