Beijing is likely to increase its economic support for Venezuela, its only all-weather strategic partner in South America, as tensions rise between Washington and Caracas.
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However, analysts suggest that China will hold back on direct military aid or actions that could provoke a direct confrontation with the United States.
The assessment comes after Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday that China opposed “any move that violates the purposes and principles of the United Nations’ Charter and a country’s sovereignty and security”.
The comment was a response to the US decision to send three destroyers and an amphibious squadron with about 4,000 Marines to the Caribbean. Earlier this month, the White House also raised its bounty for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to US$50 million.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil thanked China for its firm rejection of US threats, saying on social media that it reflected the “unshakeable friendship” between the two nations.
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China has been a strong supporter of Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, providing economic aid to the country as it grapples with US sanctions.