In the December 23, 2025, UN Security Council meeting on US seizures of Venezuelan oil tankers and naval pressures—where Venezuela accused Washington of extortion with Russia and China backing—China's Sun Lei warned of escalating regional tensions and sovereignty violations. Caracas is advancing legislation targeting naval blockade supporters amid the Trump administration's crackdown.
The UN Security Council meeting, requested by Venezuela amid US interceptions of oil tankers like the Skipper and a major military deployment in the Caribbean, saw sharp exchanges. China's deputy permanent representative Sun Lei stated: “The US actions and the rhetoric have led to continued tensions in the region, raising serious concerns among regional countries and the international community.” He added: “The US actions seriously infringe upon other countries’ sovereignty, security and the legitimate rising interests.”
Venezuela's Samuel Moncada highlighted US pressures, echoing broader accusations of extortion through sanctions. While no consensus emerged on multilateralism or international law, the discussions underscored global divides over unilateral actions in the Caribbean.
In response, Venezuela is pushing a law to target countries or entities supporting naval blockades. US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has driven these measures to curb the Maduro regime's oil revenues. This follows earlier reports on Russian condemnations, US defenses linking Maduro to narcotrafficking, and calls for dialogue from Brazil.