China Slams U.S. Military Deployment Near Venezuela

(MENAFN) On Monday, China sharply criticized the United States for its military presence near Venezuela, asserting that the deployment jeopardizes regional peace and violates international norms. The Chinese government cautioned Washington against any involvement in Venezuela's domestic matters.

"The actions of the US seriously undermine peace and security of the region, seriously infringe upon the security, sovereignty and legitimate rights and interests of other countries, seriously violate international law," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a press briefing in Beijing.

This remark follows the recent deployment of U.S. Navy destroyers—the USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham, and USS Sampson—which have been stationed off the Venezuelan coast since late August.

In response, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced the mobilization of 4.5 million militia members across the country, pledging that Venezuela is prepared to defend itself against any external aggression.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez reported on Sunday that the U.S. has been conducting intelligence-gathering flights over the Caribbean and near Venezuelan airspace.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggested that American forces are ready for operations aimed at potential regime change in Venezuela.

China also reiterated its commitment to combating transnational crimes through international cooperation. However, Lin Jian accused the U.S. of using the "counter narcotics" rationale as a pretext to increase military pressure on Venezuela, including sinking ships and detaining fishing vessels from the country, actions which have contributed to heightened tensions.

“We oppose unilateral use of force; we oppose any foreign forces interfering in the internal affairs of Venezuela under any pretext,” Lin emphasized.

He called on Washington to cease undermining Venezuela's sovereignty and navigation rights, urging the U.S. to respect international law to help preserve peace and stability in the region.

Tensions between the two nations flared after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order mandating more aggressive military action against Latin American drug cartels, raising the stakes for Venezuela’s security.

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