Legal Framework

OAS Charter — Article 19

Prohibits intervention by any state in the internal or external affairs of another, extending beyond armed force to any form of interference or threat against a state's political, economic, or cultural independence.

Related incidents

2 incidents

Operation Absolute Resolve: Unilateral US Military Intervention in Venezuela

The United States launched a unilateral military intervention in Venezuela, bombing infrastructure and capturing the sitting head of state, without Congressional authorization, UN Security Council …

  • The US launched Operation Absolute Resolve on January 3, 2026, bombing Venezuelan infrastructure and capturing President Nicolas Maduro …
  • The operation included bombing to suppress air defenses across northern Venezuela followed by a special operations raid on Maduro's compound …

Colombia Deportation Standoff: Economic Coercion via Tariff Threats

The US threatened Colombia with 25-50% tariffs, visa bans, and customs inspections to coerce acceptance of military deportation flights. Colombia capitulated within hours, establishing a precedent for …

  • Trump announced 25% tariffs on all Colombian goods (escalating to 50% within one week), a travel ban, visa revocations for government …
  • Colombian President Petro's objection was specifically to the use of military aircraft for deportation flights, arguing it treated migrants …