Release Maduro, Wife Now, China Tells US

China has called on the United States to immediately release Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, describing their forceful capture as a clear violation of international law.

In a statement issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Beijing said it was “gravely concerned” over reports that the US had forcibly seized President Maduro and his wife and taken them out of Venezuela.

“China expresses grave concern over the US forcibly seizing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife and taking them out of the country,” the ministry said.

According to China, the action contravenes international law, established norms governing international relations, as well as the principles of the United Nations Charter.

“The US’s move is in clear violation of international law, basic norms in international relations, and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter,” the statement added.

China further urged Washington to guarantee the safety of the Venezuelan leader and his wife and desist from actions aimed at destabilising Venezuela.

“China calls on the US to ensure the personal safety of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, release them at once, stop toppling the government of Venezuela, and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation,” it added.