China respects Venezuelan succession, condemns US 'sovereignty' violation

China has articulated a clear stance on the political transition in Venezuela, expressing respect for the constitutional process that elevated Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to interim leadership while unleashing a sharp diplomatic rebuke of the United States. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that Beijing "respects the arrangements made by the Venezuelan government in accordance with its own constitution and laws," effectively signaling acceptance of Rodriguez's authority following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.

A Strong Condemnation of US Actions and 'Domestic Law'

Beijing's comments extended far beyond a simple acknowledgment of Venezuela's internal affairs. Spokeswoman Mao delivered a pointed critique of the United States, accusing it of "wanton" actions that "trampled on Venezuela's sovereignty, security, and legitimate rights and interests." She argued that Washington, as a permanent UN Security Council member, has "disregarded the serious concerns of the international community." Mao particularly condemned the U.S. decision to prosecute Maduro in a domestic court, stating it "severely" violates Venezuela's sovereignty and "undermines the stability of international relations," adding that "no country can place its own rules above international law."

Context of the Transition and Beijing's Regional Stance

China's position comes after Rodriguez was sworn in as interim president before Venezuela's National Assembly in Caracas on Monday, succeeding Maduro after a U.S. military operation captured him and First Lady Cilia Flores. The couple was transported to New York, where they pleaded not guilty to federal drug trafficking and terrorism charges. China, a major economic partner of Venezuela through oil deals and loans, has previously expressed "shock" at the raid and called for the couple's immediate release. Its latest statements reinforce a foreign policy principle of non-interference and opposition to what it perceives as U.S. unilateralism and hegemony, especially in Latin America.

Aligning with Broader International Criticism

Beijing's condemnation aligns with a wave of international criticism from nations including Russia, Iran, Cuba, and Bolivia, which have denounced the U.S. action as a violation of international law. By framing its support for Rodriguez within the context of respecting Venezuelan constitutional continuity and sovereignty, China positions itself as a defender of established global norms against what it characterizes as U.S. overreach, further solidifying a geopolitical divide over the crisis.