Trump's Venezuela Maduro Abduction: Russia's Humiliation and China's Choice

He chose abduction over a handshake. President Donald Trump's bold move to kidnap Nicolas Maduro hasn't just upended Venezuela; it's put the limits of Russia and China's strategic partnership on full display. According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the strike reveals a Moscow that's too weak to protect its allies and a Beijing that's primarily focused on its own bottom line.

The Trump's Venezuela Maduro Abduction and the Energy Game

Trump isn't making any pretenses about human rights. His interest is purely driven by energy. Reports suggest the Trump administration's demanding Caracas partner exclusively with the United States on oil production. This means cutting ties with Russia, China, Iran, and Cuba.

The U.S. seizure of a Russian-flagged tanker on January 7, 2026, was a serious blow. Still bogged down by its invasion of Ukraine, Russia isn't in a position to respond, leaving its propaganda machine in an awkward spot while its ally remains in U.S. custody.

Beijing's Pragmatism in the Face of Conflict

While Beijing is a major buyer, the impact might not be as severe as it looks. Last year, 80% of Venezuelan oil went to China, but that's only 4% of its total imports. China can simply increase imports from other producers. Trump also hinted he might allow Venezuela to continue selling to China, possibly as a bargaining chip in broader trade negotiations.