China has made a strong demand in response to the rapid capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro by US special forces, triggering concerns of escalating tensions between Beijing and Washington DC. Maduro and his wife were taken from their residence in a nighttime operation and are now facing charges, including narco-terrorism and drug smuggling into the US. The US action, seen as a defiance of international norms, has drawn criticism from Beijing and Moscow, with China urging the immediate release of the couple and expressing worry about their removal from Venezuela.
According to Chinese officials, the special forces operation violated international law and norms, as well as the principles of the United Nations Charter. China called for the safety of Maduro and his wife, their prompt release, a halt to Venezuela’s government overthrow, and the resolution of issues through dialogue. The situation has stirred irony among Western critics of Chinese and Russian actions in regions like the South China Sea and Ukraine, but China’s displeasure stems from its significant interests in Venezuela’s oil resources.
Russia has joined in condemning the US operation, labeling it as “armed aggression.” President Trump defended the capture by alleging Venezuela’s complicity in drug trafficking to the US. He announced plans for the US to lead a transitional phase in Venezuela and deploy oil companies for resource extraction. The US administration has warned Latin American leaders of potential consequences for governments perceived as hostile.
UK’s Keir Starmer maintained a neutral stance on the raid, emphasizing discussions with US counterparts for a peaceful transition to a legitimate Venezuelan government reflecting the people’s will.