China reacts strongly to President Maduro’s arrest, issues stern warning to US; demands immediate release

Beijing (The Uttam Hindu): China has strongly reacted to the arrest of Venezuela’s ousted President Nicolás Maduro and his wife by the US military. On Sunday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a sharp warning to the United States, demanding the immediate release of the Maduro couple and urging Washington to stop attempts to overthrow Venezuela’s government.

China expresses serious concern, calls it violation of international rules

In an official statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that China is deeply concerned over the US forcibly detaining President Nicolás Maduro and his wife and taking them out of the country. Beijing described the action as a clear violation of international law, basic norms of international relations, and the principles and objectives of the United Nations Charter.

China urged the US to ensure the personal safety of Maduro and his wife and stressed that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and negotiations rather than military action.

US action termed ‘hegemonic’, says China

Earlier on Saturday, China had also objected strongly to reports of US airstrikes on Venezuela and Maduro’s arrest. The ministry called the move a “hegemonic act” by the United States, stating that the open use of force against a sovereign nation and action against its president was shocking.

China warned that such actions by the US pose a serious threat to peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean region. Beijing demanded that Washington stop violating the sovereignty and security of other nations.

Major diplomatic setback for Beijing

According to political analysts, the fall of the Maduro government and his arrest represent a significant strategic setback for China. Since the era of former Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, China and Venezuela have shared close and strategic ties. China has made substantial investments in Venezuela, and increased US control in the country is seen as a matter of serious concern for Beijing’s regional and global interests.