URGENT UPDATE: China and Russia have officially condemned the United States’ recent actions against the Venezuelan regime of Nicolás Maduro, escalating tensions in the region. In a series of statements made on November 1 and 2, 2023, both nations reinforced their support for Venezuela, criticizing President Donald Trump‘s total blockade on Venezuelan oil exports as an infringement on national sovereignty.
The U.S. government announced a drastic move to impose a complete blockade on all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, citing ongoing concerns over narcotics trafficking and human rights abuses. Trump declared on his platform, Truth Social, that the Venezuelan regime has become a “FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATION” due to its extensive involvement in drug smuggling and other illicit activities. He stated,
“It will only get bigger, and the shock to them will be like nothing they have ever seen before.”
In response, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call with Venezuelan counterpart Yván Gil on November 1, asserting that “China and Venezuela are strategic partners.” Wang condemned U.S. actions as “bullying” and emphasized that the international community recognizes Venezuela’s right to defend its interests. China has publicly backed Venezuela’s call for an emergency session of the U.N. Security Council to discuss these developments.
The Russian Foreign Ministry also voiced strong opposition, warning the U.S. against targeting its ally. A statement released on November 2 cautioned that undermining the Maduro regime could lead to a “fatal mistake.” The ministry urged for “normalization” in relations, emphasizing the need for respect for international legal norms.
This situation is critical as Maduro’s administration faces serious allegations, including human rights violations and links to a multinational cocaine trafficking operation linked to the Venezuelan military. Humanitarian crises in Venezuela have drawn international condemnation, with millions fleeing the country amid economic collapse.
The U.S. government is offering a reward of $15 million for information leading to the arrest of key Maduro associates involved in drug trafficking. Following the blockade announcement, Maduro reportedly ordered the Venezuelan navy to escort oil tankers, a move that could provoke further military engagement with the U.S.
Maduro’s foreign ministry accused the Trump administration of violating Venezuela’s sovereignty, stating in a letter to the U.N.,
“The President of the United States is violating with impunity our national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.”
As tensions escalate, the global community is watching closely. The outcome of the U.S. blockade and the potential for military confrontation could have far-reaching implications for regional stability and international relations, particularly between major powers like China and Russia.
What happens next is uncertain. Analysts are closely monitoring the situation as both China and Russia have refrained from disclosing any military support for Maduro, leaving the world to speculate on their next moves.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
