China has strongly condemned the United States for seizing Venezuela-linked oil tankers in international waters, calling the move a serious violation of international law. Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing opposes unilateral sanctions imposed without UN Security Council authorisation. The seizures come amid escalating US pressure on Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and tighter enforcement of oil sanctions. China also rejected what it called politically motivated disinformation regarding allegations of Chinese cyberattacks on US congressional staff, stressing its opposition to hacking and false accusations. The developments add to growing geopolitical tensions across the Americas.