China on Sunday demanded the release of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife after they were captured by US forces in a "large-scale strike." The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the US action, calling it a violation of international law and sovereignty. "China expresses grave concern over the US forcibly seizing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife and taking them out of the country," the ministry said in a statement. China urged the US to "ensure the personal safety of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, release them at once, stop toppling the government of Venezuela, and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation." The ministry described the US move as a hegemonic act that threatens peace in Latin America and the Caribbean. China emphasized that the act seriously violates international law, basic norms of international relations, and the UN Charter. This event is a significant setback for China, which has maintained close ties with Venezuela for two decades, including oil trade and loans. Earlier, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said China was deeply shocked by the US announcement of airstrikes and the capture of Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. China firmly opposed the US use of force against Venezuela and called on Washington to respect international law and sovereignty.