China says US action in Venezuela violates international law

It firmly opposes such hegemonic behaviour by the US which seriously violates international law

A US Air Force F-35 Lightning II fighter jet approaches for landing at the former Roosevelt Roads naval base, after US President Donald Trump said the US has struck Venezuela and captured its President Nicolas Maduro, in Ceiba, Puerto Rico, Jan 3, 2026. REUTERS/Eva Marie Uzcategui

China's foreign ministry said in a statement on Saturday that it condemned the US action in Venezuela, which it said violated international law.

"China is deeply shocked and strongly condemns the use of force by the US against a sovereign country and the use of force against the president of a country," the foreign ministry said.

"China firmly opposes such hegemonic behaviour by the US, which seriously violates international law, violates Venezuela's sovereignty, and threatens peace and security in Latin America and the Caribbean. We urge the US to abide by international law and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and stop violating the sovereignty and security of other countries."