China Accuses US of ‘Bullying’ Venezuela as Trump Imposes Oil Blockade

China accused the United States of “bullying” Venezuela, criticizing Trump’s comprehensive oil blockade and pledging support for Caracas’ sovereignty and strategic partnerships.

China voiced strong support for Venezuela on Wednesday, December 17, as tensions with the United States escalated, highlighting a growing diplomatic rift between Beijing and Washington over Latin America. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke by phone with Venezuelan counterpart Yvan Gil Pinto, emphasizing that Beijing opposes “unilateral bullying” and will support nations in defending their sovereignty and political independence, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Wang described Venezuela as a long-term strategic partner, stressing decades of mutual trust and cooperation. He also reaffirmed China’s readiness to continue close political and diplomatic collaboration with Caracas, underscoring Beijing’s commitment to multilateral engagement rather than coercive measures.

The comments come amid heightened U.S. pressure on Caracas. President Donald Trump announced a “full and comprehensive blockade” targeting Venezuelan oil tankers and formally designated the Maduro government as a “foreign terrorist organization,” citing accusations of drug trafficking and organized crime. These measures have fueled speculation about potential destabilization efforts against President Nicolás Maduro.

Reuters note that the Trump administration’s actions form part of a broader “maximum pressure” campaign intended to isolate Caracas economically and politically. Analysts warn that this approach could further strain regional stability and prompt countermeasures from China and other allies.

In response, Venezuela has requested a UN Security Council meeting to address what it describes as ongoing “hostile and coercive actions” by the United States, framing the dispute as a violation of international law and regional norms.

Observers say China’s support for Venezuela reflects a broader strategy to counter U.S. influence globally, particularly in Latin America, while promoting alternatives to Washington-led sanctions regimes.

Analysts also note that Beijing’s backing could provide Caracas with critical political and economic lifelines, enabling Maduro’s government to withstand mounting international pressure and reinforcing China’s role as a counterweight to U.S. policies in the region.

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