China has sharply criticized the U.S. for imposing a 25% tariff on countries buying Venezuelan oil, calling the move “illegal” and harmful to global trade stability . Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused Washington of abusing “long-arm jurisdiction” and undermining other nations’ sovereignty during a press briefing Tuesday.
U.S. Escalates Oil Trade Pressure
The new tariffs, approved via executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, target countries still trading gas and oil with Venezuela – a nation under strict U.S. sanctions since 2019. Guo warned: “Trade wars yield no winners. This will only hurt American businesses and consumers.”
Venezuela’s Recovery Push
Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro pledged to ramp up production despite sanctions, stating: “Today’s battle is to produce, supply, and export.” The country’s oil-dependent economy has faced severe challenges, with production dropping to 800,000 barrels per day in 2025 – far below its peak.
The clash highlights growing tensions between global powers over energy politics, with young professionals and investors watching closely as markets brace for potential ripple effects .
. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused Washington of abusing “long-arm jurisdiction” and undermining other nations’ sovereignty during a press briefing Tuesday.
The country’s oil-dependent economy has faced severe challenges, with production dropping to 800,000 barrels per day in 2025 – far below its peak.
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