China Urges U.S. to Release Venezuela’s President Maduro and Resolve Crisis Diplomatically

China has demanded that the United States “immediately release Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro and his wife” and address the Venezuelan crisis through dialogue and negotiations rather than force.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong concerns over U.S. actions, stating that forcibly arresting a foreign leader and taking them out of their country violates international law and diplomatic principles.

In a statement released on Sunday, the ministry emphasized that the U.S. should ensure the personal safety of Nicolás Maduro and his wife and release them without delay. The statement added that such actions not only escalate regional instability but also contravene international laws and the United Nations Charter.

China’s response comes after the U.S. reportedly carried out military operations in Venezuela on Saturday, arresting President Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores and transferring them to New York. While U.S. officials confirmed that the couple is in custody, the move has drawn global criticism and demands for clarification.

U.S. President Donald Trump had stated a few hours after the operation that the U.S. would manage Venezuelan affairs “until a safe, appropriate, and wise transfer of power is possible,” further heightening regional tensions.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated that the Venezuelan issue should be resolved through political dialogue and diplomatic efforts, not military force, and called on the international community to play a constructive role in achieving a peaceful resolution to the crisis.