China on Monday strongly criticised the United States (US) for seizing Venezuela oil, calling the move a serious violation of international law. The reaction followed the interception of a China-bound oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela by US authorities.
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Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Venezuela has the right to develop relations with other countries. He added that China firmly opposes all forms of “unilateral and illegal” sanctions imposed outside international frameworks.
The remarks came after the US Coast Guard intercepted a second oil tanker in international waters near Venezuela over the weekend. The action followed an announcement by President Donald Trump of a “blockade” on sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuelan ports.
According to shipping documents, the tanker named Centuries had loaded crude oil in Venezuela under the false name “Crag.” It was reportedly carrying around 1.8 million barrels of Venezuelan Merey crude oil destined for China.
The documents also showed that the oil cargo was purchased by Satau Tijana Oil Trading. The firm is one of several intermediaries involved in sales by Venezuela’s state-run oil company PDVSA to Chinese independent refiners.
A White House spokesperson said the vessel was falsely flagged and was transporting sanctioned oil as part of Venezuela’s so-called shadow fleet. US officials have argued that such measures are necessary to enforce sanctions and prevent illicit oil exports.
Venezuela’s government condemned the interception, describing it as a serious act of international piracy. Officials in Caracas accused Washington of undermining global maritime norms and escalating tensions in the region.
China, meanwhile, reiterated its opposition to unilateral enforcement actions and called for respect for international law. Beijing has consistently maintained that disputes over sanctions should be resolved through dialogue rather than coercive measures.
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China remains the largest buyer of Venezuelan crude oil, which accounts for roughly four percent of its total oil imports. The latest incident adds to ongoing tensions surrounding energy trade, sanctions, and maritime security.