China criticizes U.S. military actions in the Caribbean

China has voiced strong opposition to the use of force by the United States in the Caribbean, calling for adherence to established international legal frameworks. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks during a press briefing on Tuesday, amid reports of rising tensions involving Venezuela and US military operations in the region.

The comments follow media reports that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is seeking military support from Russia, China, and Iran, as the US bolsters its military presence in the Caribbean.

Since September, at least 61 people have been killed in more than a dozen US strikes targeting suspected drug traffickers, many of whom were reportedly operating from Venezuelan waters.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responds at a regular press briefing in Beijing on July 7, 2025. (PHOTO / CHINA'S FOREIGN MINISTRY) 

"China supports international cooperation to combat transnational crime, but firmly opposes the use or threat of force and actions that undermine peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean," Mao stated.

Beijing also condemned unilateral US "law enforcement" operations outside its jurisdiction, urging Washington to conduct any legal or judicial activities within proper bilateral or multilateral agreements.

"We hope the US will carry out normal law enforcement and judicial work through proper legal frameworks," Mao added.

In response to allegations of deeper security ties between China and Venezuela, Mao emphasized that cooperation between the two nations is routine, lawful, and not directed at any third party.