The United States’ recent military action in Venezuela may hand China a powerful diplomatic tool to reinforce its territorial claims, but analysts believe it is unlikely to accelerate any immediate military action against Taiwan.
Experts say Beijing could use Washington’s move — which included the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro — to intensify criticism of the US on the global stage and question America’s commitment to international law. However, China’s long-term strategy on Taiwan remains driven by domestic priorities and military readiness, not events unfolding in Latin America.
According to geopolitical analysts, the strike gives Beijing what one expert described as “cheap ammunition” to challenge US moral authority, particularly on sensitive issues such as Taiwan, Tibet, and disputed islands in the South and East China Seas.
“Washington often accuses China of violating international norms, but actions like this weaken that argument,” said William Yang of the International Crisis Group. “China will use this moment to push back diplomatically.”
China claims Taiwan as its territory — a stance firmly rejected by Taipei — and has increased military pressure on the island in recent months. Just last week, Beijing conducted its largest-ever military drills encircling Taiwan, highlighting its ability to isolate the island in a potential conflict.
Despite rising tensions, analysts stress that a Taiwan invasion is not imminent. “China’s ability to take Taiwan depends on its military capability, which is still developing,” said Shi Yinhong, a professor of international relations in Beijing. “This has little to do with what the US does in Venezuela.”
Others argue that China will deliberately avoid drawing direct comparisons. “Beijing wants to contrast itself with Washington and project an image of restraint and moral leadership,” said Neil Thomas of the Asia Society. “Xi Jinping’s focus is China — not Venezuela.”
Taiwanese officials echoed this view. Senior lawmaker Wang Ting-yu dismissed fears of China copying US tactics, saying China lacks the practical means for such an operation. “China is not the United States, and Taiwan is certainly not Venezuela,” he wrote.
Still, the situation adds pressure on Taiwan’s leadership, which may now seek stronger diplomatic backing from Washington amid shifting global dynamics. Analysts warn that while the crisis won’t spark immediate conflict, it strengthens China’s narrative for future geopolitical arguments.
