China condemns US decision to punish Venezuelan oil importers
China has strongly condemned US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on US imports from countries that purchase gas and oil from Venezuela.
Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said on Tuesday that the US must halt its interference in Venezuela's internal affairs and end its "illegal" sanctions on the country.
“China firmly opposes the US’ long-term abuse of illegal unilateral sanctions and so-called long-arm jurisdiction,” Guo told reporters in Beijing.
Guo called on the US “to take more actions conducive to peace, stability, and development in Venezuela and other countries.”
According to Trump’s order, effective from April 2, a 25% tariff may be imposed on all goods imported into the US from any country that imports gas and oil, whether directly or indirectly from Venezuela.
“Venezuela has been very hostile to the United States and the Freedoms which we espouse. Therefore, any Country that purchases Oil and/or Gas from Venezuela will be forced to pay a Tariff of 25% to the United States on any Trade they do with our Country,” Trump wrote in a post on his social media platform Truth Social.
Oil is Venezuela's main export and China, which is already the subject of US tariffs, is the largest buyer of Venezuela's gas and oil.
In February, China bought directly and indirectly some 503,000 barrels per day of Venezuelan crude and fuel, some 55% of the South American country’s total exports.
The US has extended an operational waiver for Chevron in Venezuela until May 27. The American oil company has been working under a sanctions exemption that allows it to continue limited activities in the country.
Trump’s new round of sanctions follows rising tensions between the US and Venezuela.
China, on the other hand, has maintained strong economic and political ties with Venezuela for years and has been a key financial backer of the South American country.
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