Why it matters:
The coordinated reactions from China and Russia highlight growing international opposition to U.S. pressure on Venezuela and raise concerns about the broader implications for regional stability, state sovereignty, and adherence to international law.
The big picture:
Venezuela has long been the target of US sanctions, covert operations, and military pressure, policies that have been repeatedly criticized as unlawful interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state.
Key points:
- China’s Foreign Ministry released a statement condemning US actions against Venezuela.
- China described US measures as politically hegemonic.
- Russia also voiced deep concern over reports of escalating US military activity and its impact on Venezuela’s leadership.
- Russia demanded immediate clarification regarding the whereabouts of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
- Reports emerged of explosions and airstrikes in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas.
What he's saying:
China’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement that “this action by the United States, carried out through political hegemony, is a clear violation of international law, an infringement on Venezuela’s sovereignty, and a threat to peace and security in Latin America and the Caribbean region. China strongly opposes this.”
Russia’s Foreign Ministry said, “We have deep concern over reports indicating that Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, and his wife have been forced to leave the country as a result of U.S. aggression. We call for immediate clarification of this situation.”
The statement added that “such actions constitute an unacceptable violation of the sovereignty of an independent state and undermine respect for the fundamental principles of international law.”
Go deeper:
U.S. Attack on Venezuela Draws Condemnation From Iran
Venezuela Under Attack: Airstrikes Hit Caracas and Other Cities
Zohre Khazaee - Mahboubeh Habibi
