(MENAFN) Beijing on Monday denounced the presence of American armed forces in waters close to Venezuela, stressing it “seriously undermines” regional stability and cautioning Washington not to meddle in the domestic matters of the South American state.

“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,” declared Foreign Ministry representative Lin Jian while speaking to journalists in the Chinese capital.

The US positioned Navy destroyers — the USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham, and USS Sampson — off the Venezuelan coastline in late August.

In retaliation, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro confirmed he had deployed 4.5 million members of the country’s militia, stating they were prepared to repel any potential assault.

On Sunday, Venezuela’s Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez revealed that the US had also been carrying out reconnaissance flights in the Caribbean and in regions neighboring his nation.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed that the American military was prepared to undertake a regime change operation in Venezuela.

“China has also always upheld to enhance international cooperation to crack down on trans-border crimes,” reiterated the Foreign Ministry spokesperson in Beijing on Monday.

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