Amidst escalating tensions, China has voiced its opposition to what it terms “unilateral harassment” as the United States increases pressure on the government of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. This diplomatic exchange follows an announcement by President Donald Trump of a blockade targeting “sanctioned tankers” entering and leaving Venezuelan waters.
China’s Response
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi communicated this position to his Venezuelan counterpart, Yvan Gil, on Wednesday. According to a statement released by the Chinese ministry, Wang Yi affirmed China’s stance against “all forms of unilateral harassment” and its support for nations in safeguarding their “sovereignty and national dignity.”
Venezuela’s Position
Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa), the state oil company, stated on Wednesday that exports of crude oil and its derivatives “are developing normally” despite the U.S. blockade. Pdvsa asserts that tankers associated with its operations “continue to navigate with full assurance, technical support and operational guarantees,” exercising rights to free navigation and commerce as protected by international law.
The company further claims its oil industry has faced prior challenges including sanctions, sabotage, cyberattacks, and what it describes as recent “acts of international piracy.”
President Trump’s announcement included a complete blockade of all sanctioned tankers and the designation of the Maduro regime as a terrorist organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What action did President Trump announce regarding Venezuela?
President Trump announced “the total and complete blockade of all sanctioned tankers that enter and leave” Venezuela and designated the Maduro regime as a terrorist organization.
How did China respond to the U.S. action?
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China’s rejection of “all forms of unilateral harassment” and affirmed support for Venezuela’s sovereignty and national dignity.
What is Pdvsa’s current assessment of its operations?
Pdvsa stated that exports of crude oil and its derivatives “are developing normally” and that its tankers continue to operate with full assurance and support.
As the U.S. blockade takes effect, it remains to be seen how Venezuela will navigate these challenges and whether further diplomatic responses will emerge from other international actors.
