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China opposes foreign interference in Latin America
China's Foreign Ministry reiterated Monday its opposition to foreign meddling in Latin American affairs as the UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting to review the U.S. military operation capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro three days prior. In statements released Monday morning, the ministry declared Beijing "opposes any interference in the internal affairs of Latin American countries for whatever reason" and pledged China's readiness "to support Latin America on issues of sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity." It emphasized that "China upholds a policy of non-interference" with a "consistent and stable" approach toward the region.
The remarks preceded Maduro's first appearance Monday at noon before a Manhattan federal court on narco-terrorism and cocaine importation charges. China had previously urged the U.S. on Sunday to "ensure the personal safety of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, release them immediately, and stop overthrowing the Venezuelan government," branding the strike a "blatant violation of international law."
The Security Council session, requested by Colombia with backing from China and Russia, followed widespread global criticism of the January 3 raid. UN Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo briefed the council, after Secretary-General António Guterres described the U.S. action as "a dangerous precedent." Russia's Foreign Ministry issued multiple condemnations of the "armed aggression," demanding Maduro's release. Six nations Spain, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Uruguay released a joint statement rejecting "unilateral military operations in Venezuela" as international law breaches.
The U.S. operation, codenamed "Absolute Resolve," began before 2 a.m. local time on January 3 with over 150 American aircraft striking northern Venezuela. Delta Force, backed by CIA agents, captured Maduro and wife Cilia Flores in Caracas. Venezuelan officials reported over 80 deaths in the assault. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had spoken with Venezuelan counterpart Yván Gil on December 17, voicing support for Venezuelan sovereignty and opposing "all forms of unilateral intimidation." China backed Venezuela's call for the UN Security Council emergency session.
