January 3, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel | World News
The Chinese government has issued a strong condemnation of the United States following reports of a large-scale military operation against Venezuela and the alleged capture of President Nicolás Maduro, warning that the action poses a serious threat to peace and stability across Latin America and the Caribbean.
In an official statement released on Saturday, Beijing described the reported U.S. operation as a “blatant use of force against a sovereign state,” accusing Washington of violating international law and undermining the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter.
According to the Chinese authorities, such actions amount to what they termed “hegemonic behavior,” stressing that Venezuela’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected.
“Such hegemonic acts of the United States seriously violate international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, and threaten peace and security in Latin America and the Caribbean region. China firmly opposes it,” the statement said.
China further urged Washington to immediately halt what it described as unlawful interference in the internal affairs of other nations, calling on the U.S. government to adhere strictly to international law and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.
Trump Claims Maduro Captured
The sharp reaction from Beijing followed a dramatic claim by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced on his Truth Social platform that U.S. forces had captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife during what he called a “large-scale” military strike.
Trump alleged that Maduro and his wife were apprehended during the operation and flown out of Venezuela to the United States, where they are reportedly being held in New York. He did not provide evidence or operational details to substantiate the claim.
“The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolás Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the country,” Trump wrote.
“This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow.”
Trump also announced that a news conference would be held at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida to provide further details.
Explosions Rock Caracas
Meanwhile, tensions escalated dramatically in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday after multiple explosions were reported across Caracas. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising near a major military installation, sparking widespread fear and uncertainty among residents.
Venezuelan authorities subsequently declared a state of emergency as security forces were placed on high alert.
Al Jazeera reported that several blasts occurred near Fortuna, one of Caracas’ most strategic military bases. Correspondent Lucia Newman said the explosions were followed by widespread power outages in parts of the city.
“Fortuna is a key military base. A series of explosions were reportedly heard throughout the area, followed by a blackout,” Newman said.
She added that while there was growing suspicion of U.S. involvement, the exact cause of the explosions remained unclear. Newman noted that internal sabotage by factions within the Venezuelan military could not be ruled out.
The Associated Press also confirmed that at least seven explosions were heard across the capital, accompanied by the sound of low-flying aircraft—further fueling speculation of a coordinated military operation.
Rising Global Concern
The unfolding developments have triggered alarm across the international community, with fears mounting that the crisis could spiral into a broader regional confrontation. China’s condemnation adds to growing global calls for restraint, dialogue, and respect for international law amid one of the most serious escalations in U.S.–Venezuela relations in recent years.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no independent confirmation from Venezuelan authorities regarding the alleged capture of President Maduro, while the situation on the ground in Caracas remains tense and highly volatile.
— SUNTV Global Channel
