How Trump’s Venezuela strike humiliated Russia and worried China

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Nikola MikovicJanuary 18, 2026 at 10:30 PM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Donald Trump's actions in Venezuela, including the potential kidnapping of Nicolas Maduro, have created a dilemma for Russia and China, two of Venezuela's key international partners. The US is reportedly demanding Venezuela exclusively partner with the US on oil production and sever ties with Russia, China, Iran, and Cuba. While China imports a significant amount of Venezuelan oil, it only accounts for a small percentage of China's total oil imports, giving them flexibility. Russia, however, appears more vulnerable, particularly after the US seized a Russian oil tanker. Trump's actions are primarily driven by energy interests, and he may allow Venezuela to continue selling oil to China. The situation puts pressure on both countries to balance their relationships with Venezuela against potential US retaliation.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Moscow 40% Ukraine 40% Cuba 40% Iran 40% Kremlin ×250% Beijing ×260% Nicolás Maduro (Maduro) 70% Donald Trump ×590% United States ×390% China ×790% Russia ×690% Venezuela ×7100%

Keywords

venezuela 100% china 70% us foreign policy 70% russia 70% oil production 70% international relations 60% donald trump 60% oil exports 50% energy 50% nicolas maduro 40%