Violation of International Law
By Thabo Mosia
Beijing, China –
The early hours of 2026 have been marked by a sharp diplomatic rebuke from China as it condemned the United States’ military strikes on Venezuela, describing them as a blatant violation of international law and an attack on a sovereign nation’s president.
For ordinary Chinese citizens starting their day with family breakfasts or commutes, this statement from their government feels like a firm stand against what they see as bullying by a global power, echoing long-held views on respecting other countries’ independence.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson expressed deep shock and strong opposition to the U.S.’s actions, which included airstrikes on Venezuelan military sites and the reported capture of President Nicolás Maduro.
“China is deeply shocked by and strongly condemns the U.S.’s blatant use of force against a sovereign state and action against its president,” the spokesperson said, labelling it as hegemonic behaviour that threatens peace in Latin America and the Caribbean.
This response not only defends a key ally but also rejects what China calls U.S. “gunboat politics,” a term harking back to historical interventions.
In a world where tensions between superpowers affect everything from oil prices to trade deals, this condemnation reminds everyday people in South Africa – with our own history of standing against external pressures – how global alliances shape stability.
As oil markets react with a 5 percent spike, hitting importers like us with higher fuel costs, China’s call for the U.S. to abide by the UN Charter and stop violating sovereignty underscores fears of wider conflict in 2026.
With Venezuela’s vast oil reserves at stake, this clash could ripple to economies worldwide, leaving families worried about rising living expenses amid the drama.
China’s firm stance comes amid reports of explosions in Caracas and U.S. claims of Maduro’s capture, turning a regional dispute into a potential flashpoint for major powers.
As diplomatic fallout grows, the hope is for dialogue to prevent escalation and protect innocent lives.
China’s Official Response: Deep Shock and Strong Condemnation
The Chinese Foreign Ministry wasted no time in reacting to the U.S. strikes, issuing a statement that expressed outrage over the attack on a sovereign state.
The spokesperson highlighted how such actions seriously violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, threatening regional peace.
“Such hegemonic acts of the U.S. seriously violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, and threaten peace and security in Latin America and the Caribbean region. China firmly opposes it,” the statement read.
This rejection not only defends Venezuela but calls on the U.S. to respect the UN Charter and stop infringing on other nations’ rights.
China’s response ties to its long-standing policy of non-interference, a principle it holds dear in global affairs.
For Chinese families who value stability in a world of uncertainties, this stand reassures them that their government protects allies against what it sees as bullying.
The term “gunboat politics” evokes historical U.S. interventions in Latin America, like those in the early 1900s, adding a layer of criticism to China’s words.
Maduro’s Meeting with Chinese Envoy: Hours Before the Strikes
Adding intrigue to the events, Maduro met with China’s Special Envoy for Latin American and Caribbean Affairs, Qiu Xiaoqi, just hours before the strikes hit on January 3, 2026.
The talks at Miraflores Palace focused on deepening bilateral ties, reviewing over 600 agreements in areas like oil, infrastructure, and technology.
This meeting, part of ongoing cooperation, underscores China’s role as a key supporter of Venezuela amid U.S. pressures.
Venezuela owes China around $60 billion from loans extended since 2007, mostly repaid in oil. In 2025, trade hit $15 billion, with China providing vital aid like vaccines and equipment.
The timing of the strikes – right after this high-level visit – has fuelled speculation about whether it was meant to disrupt these alliances. For Venezuelans, China’s condemnation offers moral support in a time of crisis.
Broader China-Venezuela Ties: A Partnership Under Pressure
China and Venezuela’s bond dates back to the Chavez era in the 2000s, with loans-for-oil deals booming to over $62 billion by 2018 – the most lent to any Latin American nation.
This funded social programs but left debt when oil prices crashed in 2014.
Under Maduro, ties deepened, with China sending medical aid during COVID-19 and helping boost oil production to 800,000 barrels daily in 2025.
China’s investments in Venezuelan mining and infrastructure have faced U.S. sanctions, but Beijing stands firm, seeing Venezuela as a strategic partner in countering U.S. influence.
In 2023, Venezuela joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative, opening doors for more projects.
This alliance helps China secure resources while giving Maduro a counter to isolation.
The U.S. strikes threaten this, potentially disrupting oil flows that repay debts. China’s condemnation rejects “gunboat politics,” a nod to its own tensions with the U.S. over Taiwan and trade.
Global Reactions: Outcry and Fears of Escalation
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva led regional condemnation, calling the strikes an “unacceptable line” crossed and urging a summit.
Colombia’s Gustavo Petro slammed “bombing Caracas,” while Mexico echoed restraint, fearing refugee waves.
Russia vowed support for Maduro, while the UN warned of humanitarian fallout. Oil prices jumped 5 percent, hitting importers like South Africa with higher fuel costs.
This backlash isolates the U.S., straining ties in Latin America where anti-imperialist views run deep.
Economic and Humanitarian Fallout: Strains on Venezuela
Venezuela’s oil economy faces hits from damaged sites, worsening shortages.
With 800,000 barrels daily in 2025, disruptions deepen poverty for 80 percent. Blackouts from strikes strain hospitals, while fighting risks lives.
Humanitarian needs spike – over 7 million fled since 2014, more possible if conflict grows. Neighbours brace for influxes.
Path Forward: De-Escalation or Wider War?
As fallout grows, mediation calls rise. Lula’s summit could de-escalate.
The UN and OAS urge restraint.
For Trump, this tests “America First” policy, risking entanglement. Maduro’s defiance suggests prolonged resistance, potentially drawing allies.
For 2026, this could define US-Latin relations, with hopes for dialogue over force. Venezuelans pray for peace, but mobilisation signals uncertainty.
In a connected world, this affects all – from energy costs to stability – calling for wisdom over force.
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