‘Hegemonic acts’: China slams US for strikes against Venezuela, capturing Maduro
China on Saturday sharply criticized the United States for what it described as “hegemonic actions” against Venezuela and its President Nicolás Maduro, citing reported military strikes and the detention of the country’s leader, and called on Washington to follow the United Nations Charter.
A spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry said Beijing was “deeply shocked and strongly condemns” what it called the United States’ open use of force against a sovereign nation and actions taken against its president.
The statement followed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said the United States had carried out a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela and that President Maduro and his wife had been captured and flown out of the country.
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, such actions seriously violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, while also threatening peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean. China said it firmly opposes these moves.
The spokesperson urged the United States to respect international law and adhere to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and to stop infringing on the sovereignty and security of other nations.
Earlier, Venezuela’s government said U.S. forces had attacked both civilian and military facilities in several states and announced a national emergency.
The reported strikes followed months of heightened tensions, during which the United States accused Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking. Maduro has denied the allegations and previously said he was open to dialogue.
Separately, China’s Foreign Ministry and the Chinese Embassy in Venezuela advised Chinese citizens to temporarily avoid travel to the country. Those already in Venezuela were urged to closely monitor the security situation, strengthen safety measures, remain prepared for emergencies, and limit unnecessary travel.