Wang Yi Africa Tour 2026: China and AU Challenge US Raid on Venezuela

They're shaking hands in Addis Ababa, but their message is aimed squarely at Washington. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi kicked off his 2026 tour of Africa with a joint condemnation of the recent US military action in Venezuela. This visit marks the 36th consecutive year that China's top diplomat has chosen the continent for his first overseas mission, signaling a deepening of Global South solidarity.

Condemnation of the US Raid on Venezuela

In a statement released Thursday in Ethiopia, Wang Yi and African Union chief Mahmoud Ali Youssouf voiced grave concerns over the US raid that occurred last Saturday. During the operation, US forces reportedly abducted Nicolas Maduro and his wife, transporting them to New York. President Donald Trump has since asserted that the US would take direct control of Venezuela and its oil reserves.

Focusing on Global South Unity

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other’s core interests. By framing the Venezuela issue as a violation of international law, China is positioning itself as a defender of the rules-based order against what it describes as Western unilateralism. This strategic alignment aims to inject "positive momentum" into regional stability while counterbalancing US influence.