China has issued a blunt four-word demand to the United States following a dramatic night-time raid that saw US special forces capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a key Beijing ally.
Operation Sparks Global Outcry
The audacious mission, carried out in the early hours, resulted in the forcible removal of Maduro and his wife from their compound. Both are now scheduled to appear in a New York court on Monday, 5th January 2026, facing charges including narco-terrorism and smuggling drugs into the United States.
The operation has sent shockwaves through international diplomacy, with analysts viewing it as a significant escalation by Washington, signalling a willingness to act unilaterally against regimes it considers a threat.
Beijing's Stern Rebuke
The Chinese foreign ministry responded with a stark, four-word directive aimed at US President Donald Trump: "Release them at once." Officials in Beijing expressed grave concern over the transfer of the Venezuelan leader out of his country.
In a formal statement, China condemned the special forces operation, declaring it was "in clear violation of international law and the basic norms in international relations". They further called on the US to ensure the safety of Maduro and his wife, cease attempts to topple the Venezuelan government, and resolve issues through dialogue.
Russia Joins Condemnation as UK Adopts Cautious Stance
Moscow, Beijing's partner in opposing US global dominance, swiftly echoed the condemnation. Russian authorities branded the raid "an act of armed aggression", amplifying fears of a new geopolitical flashpoint.
President Trump justified the capture by reiterating long-standing claims that Venezuela facilitates the smuggling of deadly narcotics into America. He subsequently announced the US would oversee a transition of power in Venezuela and dispatch oil companies to extract the nation's resources.
In contrast, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer adopted a more measured position. "The UK Government will discuss the evolving situation with US counterparts in the days ahead," he stated, emphasising a desire for a peaceful transition to a legitimate government reflecting the will of the Venezuelan people.
The incident highlights the deepening rift between Western powers and the Beijing-Moscow axis, with China's substantial oil interests in Venezuela adding a critical economic dimension to its fierce diplomatic response.
