Taiwan's Opposition Party Warns Venezuela Precedent Aids China

Taiwanese political leaders are divided over the implications of the U.S. operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, with opposition figures warning it could embolden China, while government officials argue the comparison is flawed.

The opposition Kuomintang said the U.S. action undermines the rules-based order and could offer Beijing a justification for tougher moves toward Taiwan.

According to Nikkei Asia, party leaders cited concerns as the legislature continues to delay President Lai Ching-te’s proposed $40 billion defense budget.

Venezuela raid by US draws concern in Taiwan over defense https://t.co/uDBQ7bjb2V

— Nikkei Asia (@NikkeiAsia) January 7, 2026

Taiwan’s government rejected parallels with Venezuela, arguing Taiwan’s security environment and alliances are fundamentally different.

Officials said President Donald Trump’s willingness to act signals deterrence against authoritarian regimes, including China.

Analysts said Beijing’s posture toward Taiwan is driven by its own strategic calculations, not events in Venezuela.

China has already stepped up military pressure, while Taiwan continues to invest in advanced air defense systems to deter aggression.

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