China Condemns US Actions Against Venezuela, Demands Maduro’s Release

Beijing has sharply criticized the United States for its recent actions against Venezuela, particularly the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro. The Chinese Foreign Ministry described the US involvement as “hegemonic” and called for the immediate release of Maduro and his wife following their capture by US forces.

On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced intentions for the US to “run” the oil-rich South American nation. This declaration coincided with a military operation that resulted in the arrest of Maduro, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation from various nations, including China.

China’s Strong Rebuttal

In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed profound shock at the US’s actions, labeling them a blatant violation of international law and Venezuelan sovereignty. The Ministry emphasized that such actions threaten peace and security in both Latin America and the Caribbean. “China demands that the United States adhere to international law and the UN Charter,” the statement read.

The US’s regime-change operation occurred shortly after a visit from a Chinese delegation led by Qiu Xiaoqi, a special envoy of President Xi Jinping. While China has not publicly detailed the outcomes of this meeting, Venezuelan officials indicated that it aimed to bolster a “multipolar world of development and peace” in response to perceived Western coercion.

China and Venezuela have maintained a robust partnership since 2023, characterized by significant economic cooperation. This relationship has included an investment deal signed in 2024, reinforcing the ties between the two nations despite ongoing sanctions against Venezuela.

Venezuelan Government’s Response

Following Maduro’s capture, the Venezuelan Supreme Court granted presidential powers to Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. In a show of support, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reached out to Rodriguez, affirming Russia’s solidarity with the Venezuelan government and its defense of national interests. Both nations reiterated their commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership, which was formalized in a bilateral agreement last May.

China’s condemnation aligns with that of Russia, both countries denouncing the forcible seizure of Maduro and demanding his release. The situation remains tense as the international community watches closely, assessing the implications of US actions on regional stability and global diplomatic relations.