Secretary-General, Saddened, Shocked by Civilian Deaths in Venezuela, Urges Avoidance of Violence, Lethal Force ‘at Any Cost’

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General is following with increasing concern the escalation of tensions in Venezuela.  He was shocked and saddened to learn that a number of civilians lost their lives in the context of yesterday’s events.

The Secretary-General appeals for violence to be avoided at any cost and for lethal force not to be used in any circumstances.

The Secretary-General appeals for calm and urges all actors to lower tensions and pursue every effort to prevent further escalation.