China condemns US for “arbitrarily seizing” vessels of other nations
“The US practice of arbitrarily seizing other countries’ vessels grossly violates international law,” a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said during a briefing in Beijing.
Beijing also reiterated its rejection of punitive measures imposed without international backing. “China opposes unilateral, illicit sanctions that have no basis in international law or have no authorization of the United Nations Security Council,” the spokesperson added.
The remarks were made as US forces continued operations targeting Venezuelan-linked oil shipments in the Caribbean. If another tanker currently being pursued is intercepted, it would mark the third such action since December 10, according to reports.
US authorities are reportedly focusing on the Bella 1, a Panama-registered tanker under American sanctions that is heading toward Venezuela to load crude oil. This follows recent boardings of the Centuries supertanker over the weekend and the Skipper earlier this month.
These developments come amid deepening strains between Washington and Caracas. US President Donald Trump has announced what he described as a “total and complete blockade” on sanctioned oil tankers traveling to or from Venezuela.
Caracas has condemned the US measures, labeling them “international piracy.” Washington, for its part, has argued that the actions are intended to curb corruption and drug trafficking.
Venezuelan officials counter that such justifications are being used as a cover to undermine President Nicolas Maduro’s government and gain influence over the country’s vast oil reserves.
China warned against actions that undermine international norms and national sovereignty.
“We stand against any move that violates the purposes of the UN Charter and infringes upon other countries’ sovereignty and security and all acts of unilateralism and bullying,” the spokesperson said.
Emphasizing Venezuela’s autonomy in foreign relations, the spokesperson added: “Venezuela has the right to independently develop mutually beneficial cooperation with other countries, and we believe that the international community can understand and support Venezuela’s stance of defending its own rights.”
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