China Condemns U.S. Seizure of Venezuela’s Maduro, Warns Against ‘World Judge’ Role
GeokHub
BEIJING, Jan 5 (GeokHub) — China has sharply criticized the United States for capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and taking him to New York for trial, accusing Washington of acting as a self-appointed global judge and undermining international law.
China’s top diplomat said Beijing rejects the idea that any single country can assume the role of global enforcer, stressing that national sovereignty and security must be respected under international law. The remarks mark China’s first official response since images of Maduro blindfolded and in custody spread worldwide.
Beijing has signaled it will challenge the legality of the U.S. operation at the United Nations, where the Security Council is set to debate the issue at the request of Colombia, backed by China and Russia. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the seizure could establish a dangerous precedent in international relations.
Beijing Positions Itself Against Military Intervention
China follows a long-standing policy of non-intervention and frequently opposes military actions conducted without UN Security Council approval. Analysts say the removal of Maduro — leader of one of China’s closest strategic partners — represents a significant test of Beijing’s claim that global disputes can be resolved without force.
While China’s ability to provide direct material support to Venezuela is limited, experts say Beijing’s influence will be felt diplomatically as it rallies developing nations and Global South partners to criticize Washington’s actions.
Strategic Stakes in Latin America
The episode also complicates China’s expanding role in Latin America, where Beijing has worked for years to deepen economic and political ties as an alternative to U.S. influence. Venezuela has been a cornerstone of that strategy, maintaining close relations with China since the era of former president Hugo Chavez and continuing under Maduro.
China has invested heavily in Venezuela’s oil sector and infrastructure, providing economic lifelines as Western sanctions tightened. Oil exports account for a significant share of bilateral trade, and Beijing has portrayed itself as a reliable partner unwilling to abandon allies under pressure.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged all countries to uphold international law and United Nations principles, calling on major powers to lead by example without naming the United States directly.
Blow to China’s Global Security Vision
Analysts and officials say Maduro’s capture represents a setback for China’s ambition to present itself as a dependable global partner, particularly for countries aligned with its Global Security Initiative. The incident has raised questions among Latin American states about how much protection diplomatic partnerships offer when confronted with U.S. military power.
