China Rejects Nations Acting as “World Judge” Following US Capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro
Beijing has strongly criticized the United States for its military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, asserting that no country should position itself as the global enforcer of justice or law.
On Sunday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated during a meeting in Beijing with Pakistan's foreign minister that China has never accepted the idea of any nation serving as the world's police or judge. He emphasized that the sovereignty and security of all countries must be fully respected and protected under international law. Wang made these remarks in reference to the recent sudden developments in Venezuela, highlighting Beijing's opposition to unilateral actions that undermine national sovereignty.
The comments come in the wake of a daring US special forces raid early Saturday in Caracas, where American troops seized Maduro, aged 63, and his wife, Cilia Flores. Images circulated showing Maduro blindfolded and handcuffed during the operation. He was subsequently flown to New York, where he is being held in a detention facility ahead of a court appearance on longstanding drug trafficking and weapons charges. US President Donald Trump announced that American forces would temporarily oversee Venezuela's government during a transition period.
The operation, described as a large-scale strike involving airstrikes on military sites and helicopter insertions by elite units, marked a significant escalation in US efforts against Maduro, whom Washington has long accused of leading a narco-terrorist regime. No US personnel were reported lost in the raid, though Venezuelan officials claimed several members of Maduro's security detail were killed.
China's response underscores the strain on its close ties with Venezuela, built over decades of diplomatic relations and economic partnerships. Beijing has provided substantial support to Caracas amid international sanctions, including major investments in the oil sector and purchases of Venezuelan crude. A high-level Chinese diplomatic visit to Maduro occurred just hours before the US raid, further highlighting the timing's impact on bilateral relations. One Chinese official privately described the capture as a significant setback, noting Beijing's intent to project reliability as a partner to Venezuela.
The development poses challenges to China's growing diplomatic influence in Latin America and its advocacy for non-interference in sovereign affairs. Wang Yi's statements align with broader Chinese positions on international hotspots, reinforcing calls for respect of sovereignty amid ambitions to play a constructive global role.
International reactions remain divided, with some nations condemning the US action as a violation of international norms, while others view it as enforcement against alleged criminal activities. Maduro's detention in the US continues to draw global attention as legal proceedings loom.