China Accuses U.S. of Illegal Tanker Seizures, Escalating Venezuela Dispute

China has accused the United States of breaking international law by seizing oil tankers near Venezuela. The accusation came on Monday from Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian. He said U.S. actions "seriously violated international law" by intercepting foreign vessels. China reaffirms its strong opposition to such unilateral measures. This criticism follows a major increase in U.S. pressure on Venezuela's government. Washington has recently intensified efforts against President Nicolas Maduro. A senior U.S. official has now openly suggested Maduro should be removed from power. The dispute centers on control of Venezuela's oil resources. The U.S. and other nations recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate president. China, however, continues to support Maduro's government. The tanker seizures are part of wider U.S. sanctions aimed at cutting off the Maduro government's oil revenue. China calls these actions illegal and a threat to global trade norms.