US urged by China to stop interfering in Venezuelas government affairs

January 4, 2026 • Al Jazeera

US urged by China to stop interfering in Venezuelas government affairs

China’s Response to US Military Action in Venezuela

Beijing has issued a statement calling on the United States to release Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, who were reportedly taken into custody by US forces. The Chinese government has also condemned the US actions as a “clear violation of international law” and urged Washington to respect the sovereignty of Venezuela.

The US military carried out strikes in Caracas and other regions, and abducted Maduro and his wife, prompting Beijing’s swift response. China is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela, with analysts noting that the country accounts for only 4-5% of its total oil imports.

China has significant economic interests in Venezuela, being the largest buyer of Venezuelan oil. The country also has growing trade and investment interests across Latin America, making it a key player in regional politics. However, China’s response to the US actions is likely to be limited to diplomatic protest rather than hard power.

According to analysts, Beijing is constrained by its lack of military power, with only two military bases outside of China. China has issued strong condemnations of the US actions and is working with other Latin American and Caribbean countries to express its disapproval. The Chinese government is unlikely to take further action, such as imposing economic sanctions.

The international community has reacted to the US actions in Venezuela, with some regional leaders denouncing Maduro’s ouster and others welcoming it. North Korea has denounced the US strikes, calling them a “clear violation of sovereignty”. South Korea has urged de-escalation of tensions, while Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has not commented on the matter.

China’s response to the US military action in Venezuela is seen as a significant development in the country’s relations with the US and its growing presence in Latin America.

Source: Al Jazeera