Trump move in Venezuela unsettles China’s strategy
Donald Trump’s sudden move against Venezuela has sent shockwaves far beyond Caracas, sharply disrupting a relationship that China had patiently built over decades. Just hours before his arrest in a surprise nighttime operation, Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro had publicly praised Chinese leader Xi Jinping, calling him “an older brother” and lauding his global leadership. Chinese state media highlighted the meeting, showcasing the depth of ties between Beijing and Caracas, built around hundreds of cooperation agreements. That carefully crafted image was quickly eclipsed by footage of Maduro in US custody, escorted aboard an American warship. China reacted swiftly, joining several countries in condemning Washington’s action. Beijing accused the US of behaving like a “world judge” and insisted that national sovereignty must be respected under international law. Beyond the official statements, however, Chinese leaders are now reassessing their strategy in Latin America […]