The United States has taken a significant step by launching military strikes against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. This action has drawn immediate condemnation from major global powers, including China, Russia, and Iran, all of whom characterized the U.S. operation as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and international law.
In a statement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China’s shock, asserting that the U.S. had “clearly violated international law.” He emphasized the need for the sovereignty and security of all nations to be respected. The Chinese government, which has maintained close economic ties with Venezuela, purchases a substantial portion of the country’s oil, raising concerns about the implications of this U.S. intervention on its energy security.
According to reports, China accounts for approximately 80% of Venezuela’s oil exports, a vital component of the South American country’s economy. Analysts, including Ryan C. Berg from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, suggest that the U.S. actions could lead to a reallocation of Venezuelan oil, potentially benefiting American firms at the expense of Chinese interests. Berg noted that the “big question” remains whether any increase in production will be directed towards the U.S. or sold on international markets.
The U.S. military operation has broader implications, particularly in light of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan. Some observers speculate that Chinese President Xi Jinping might see the U.S. actions as a precedent for his own potential military maneuvers in the region. Since assuming power in 2012, Xi has reiterated his commitment to unifying Taiwan with mainland China and has not dismissed the use of force.
In Moscow, the U.S. strikes were characterized as “illegal” and “destabilizing” by former President Dmitry Medvedev. He acknowledged the consistency in President Trump’s actions regarding U.S. national interests, particularly in relation to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. Berg noted that the U.S. operation aligns with Russia’s approach to asserting its influence, particularly in light of its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In the context of Iran, the situation is particularly tense as the country faces significant internal protests. With at least 29 protesters reported killed amid clashes with security forces, Iranian authorities are grappling with a wave of unrest. Trump has warned that the U.S. is prepared to intervene if the Iranian government continues to respond violently to protests. Some analysts believe that Trump’s actions in Venezuela may inspire hope among Iranians for similar international pressure against their own government.
In the aftermath of the U.S. strikes, Trump expressed optimism about the potential collapse of the Cuban government, which has long been an ally of Venezuela. He stated, “Cuba looks like it is ready to fall,” highlighting the economic dependency of the Cuban regime on Venezuelan oil. The Cuban government has condemned the U.S. actions, asserting that they will mobilize support from the international community to counter the perceived aggression.
As the geopolitical landscape shifts following the U.S. operation, the responses from these major powers highlight the potential for increased tensions and redefined alliances in the region. The implications for global energy markets, international law, and regional stability remain to be seen as the situation continues to unfold.
