The US is heaping pressure on Venezuela. What will China do?
Beijing is an all-weather partner to Caracas and keen on political continuity, observers say
However, analysts suggest that China will hold back on direct military aid or actions that could provoke a direct confrontation with the United States.
The assessment comes after Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday that China opposed “any move that violates the purposes and principles of the United Nations’ Charter and a country’s sovereignty and security”.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil thanked China for its firm rejection of US threats, saying on social media that it reflected the “unshakeable friendship” between the two nations.
China has been a strong supporter of Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, providing economic aid to the country as it grapples with US sanctions.