The United States’ capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife has prompted international criticism, including from China. U.S. elite forces conducted a pre-dawn raid in Caracas on Jan. 3, seizing Maduro while airstrikes targeted sites in and around the capital.
US Operation in Venezuela Draws International Condemnation
Several countries have publicly criticized the U.S. operation, condemning it as a “clear violation of international law” and demanding the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Maduro and Flores appeared in a New York court on Monday (Jan. 5) and pleaded not guilty to narcotics-related charges.
Washington has characterized the operation as a targeted law-enforcement effort, rather than a broader military intervention. It represents the largest U.S. intervention in Latin America since 1989.
What’s at Stake for China in Latin America?
China has significant investments, energy supply interests, and seeks to expand its influence in Latin America. Venezuela has received over US$62 billion from China since 2007, representing 53 percent of all Chinese lending to the region.
Brazil, Ecuador, and Argentina are the next largest recipients of Chinese lending in Latin America. The relationship between China and Venezuela was solidified under former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who was in power from 1999 to 2013.
Chavez signed multiple trade agreements with Beijing, viewing China as a counterweight to U.S. influence. Under these agreements, Venezuela pledged to supply up to one million barrels of oil per day to China, while Beijing promised political support. Maduro continued these arrangements after taking office in 2013, though new Chinese lending largely ceased after 2016 as both countries focused on restructuring existing debt.
Related reading
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
