Beijing, China – January 5, 2026 – China's Foreign Ministry has reiterated its firm opposition to the United States' military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, while pledging continued deepening of bilateral cooperation and assurance that Chinese interests in the Latin American nation remain legally protected.
During a regular press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that China respects Venezuela's sovereignty and independence, believing the government will handle internal affairs in accordance with its constitution and laws. "China-Venezuela cooperation is conducted between two sovereign states, (and) protected by international law and laws of the two countries," Lin said.
He emphasized Beijing's commitment regardless of political changes: "No matter how the political situation in Venezuela may evolve, China is deeply committed to deepening the two countries’ practical cooperation in various fields and … legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese side in Venezuela will be protected in accordance with the law."
These remarks build on China's immediate strong condemnation following the U.S. "large-scale" strikes on January 3, which targeted sites in Caracas and other areas, leading to Maduro's capture and transfer to New York to face longstanding U.S. federal drug-trafficking charges. Reports indicate significant casualties, with Venezuelan officials claiming dozens killed, including civilians and military personnel.
Lin urged the U.S. to ensure the safety of Maduro and Flores, currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, and to cease actions violating other nations' sovereignty. Regarding U.S. statements on temporarily administering Venezuela, Lin advised respecting the "path chosen by" the Venezuelan people to restore stability.
China supports the UN Security Council fulfilling its mandate, as the body prepares for an emergency session on Monday to address the crisis, requested by Venezuela and supported by allies including Russia and Colombia.
On the timing of the operation—hours after Maduro met China's special representative Qiu Xiaoqi at Miraflores Palace on Friday—Lin described such visits as routine diplomatic engagements. The meeting focused on strengthening strategic ties, with Maduro reaffirming commitment to a "multipolar world of development and peace."
Separately, responding to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments on Greenland being "covered with" Chinese ships, Lin urged Washington to stop using the "so-called 'China threat'" for self-interested purposes, as reported by state-affiliated media.
China, Venezuela's largest creditor and key oil buyer, has maintained robust ties since the Hugo Chávez era, elevating relations to an "all-weather strategic partnership" in recent years. Beijing's response reflects broader concerns over sovereignty violations amid escalating U.S.-China tensions.
The U.S. operation has divided international opinion, with allies like Russia and Cuba denouncing it as illegal aggression, while some Western nations express cautious support or call for democratic transitions. Legal experts widely view the action as lacking UN authorization or self-defense justification, potentially setting a precedent.
As Maduro faces arraignment in New York, Venezuela's interim leadership under Vice President Delcy Rodríguez navigates uncertainty, with calls for calm and dialogue amid reports of heightened security.
China's stance underscores its role as a "good friend" to Latin America, opposing external interference while safeguarding economic stakes in the region.
