Trump’s plan to take Venezuelan oil angers China, pushes prices down, and it’s certainly stirred up a lot of controversy. The former President’s stated intention, to control the sale of Venezuelan oil and direct the funds for the benefit of both Venezuela and the United States, has sparked a geopolitical ripple effect.
One of the most immediate consequences appears to be China’s displeasure. China, a major consumer of oil and a significant player in the global market, has strong economic ties with Venezuela. Any move that disrupts or undermines those ties is bound to ruffle some feathers in Beijing. They probably feel as if their interests are being stepped upon, and that’s not something they take lightly.… Continue reading
Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to visit China from January 13 to 17, aiming to enhance engagement on trade, energy, agriculture, and international security. This marks the first such visit since 2017, following a period of strained relations due to the arrest of a Huawei executive and the subsequent detention of Canadian citizens. Despite previously labeling China a security threat, Carney has signaled intentions to deepen ties, having met with Chinese officials in recent months, suggesting a potential “turning point” in the relationship. While Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe welcomes the visit and hopes it addresses canola tariffs, others like Michael Kovrig have cautioned against prioritizing China for economic diversification, especially regarding tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Read More
Trump demands Venezuela kick out China and Russia, partner only with US on oil. The whole situation feels like a bad movie, doesn’t it? It’s hard not to see the echoes of the past, specifically the Monroe Doctrine, a relic of a bygone era. It’s almost comical how a concept from centuries ago is being dusted off and applied to the modern world, as if ignoring the advancements in technology and global relations. One has to wonder if those pushing these ideas fully grasp the current landscape.
The core issue here is Venezuela’s oil, and Trump’s insistence on exclusive partnership with the US.… Continue reading
During a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian accused the United States of using the “Chinese threat” to justify its own selfish ambitions. He specifically called out the U.S.’s interest in Greenland, which former President Trump has cited as necessary for national security. Trump’s justification included the presence of Chinese ships near Greenland’s coast. The Chinese government urged the U.S. to cease leveraging the situation for its own benefit.
Read More
The Trump administration’s strategy for Venezuela appears to lack a cohesive plan, potentially relying on bullying or the assumption of a welcoming reception for U.S. troops, even as American oil companies are poised to exploit resources. Despite the existing regime’s defiance, there are indicators that the administration might permit the current Vice President to remain in power if she embraces a capitalist system favorable to U.S. oil interests. This approach, alongside Russia’s silence and former testimonies, implies a potential agreement where the U.S. could be trading off territories like Ukraine and Taiwan for influence in other regions. Furthermore, the 2025 National Security Strategy signals a shift away from traditional alliances, implying a new global order defined by spheres of influence and the pursuit of wealth by major powers.
Read More
On January 4th, President Zelensky enacted sanctions against 95 individuals and 70 entities involved in supporting Russia’s military-industrial complex. These sanctions, targeting both Russian and Chinese citizens, include asset freezes, trade restrictions, and transportation bans, intending to cripple Russia’s weapons production capabilities. The measures also extend to key industrial sectors like chemicals, mining, and energy. Notably, some entities targeted by Ukraine are also facing sanctions from the European Union, which recently expanded its sanctions on Russia’s “shadow fleet” of tankers.
Read More
China says it cannot accept countries acting as world judge after US captures Maduro, and honestly, you can’t help but see this statement as a bit of a “pot calling the kettle black” situation. It’s a classic example of geopolitical posturing, isn’t it? You can practically hear the collective eye roll from the rest of the world. After all, the very countries that are now bristling at the US’s actions haven’t exactly been choirboys on the international stage.
The world remembers, or at least many people remember, China’s silence on the invasion of Ukraine. Where was the condemnation of Russia then?… Continue reading
On Sunday, January 4, 2026, China urged the United States to immediately release Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, following the US’s seizure of them. The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the US action, labeling it a violation of international law. China called for the US to halt its actions and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation. This condemnation echoed sentiments from Russia and Iran, while allies like France and the EU expressed concern, albeit with nuanced positions on Maduro’s legitimacy.
Read More
China Slams US ‘Hegemonic Acts’ After Strikes on Venezuela.
It’s pretty clear that China isn’t thrilled about the US actions in Venezuela. They’re using strong language, calling the US actions “hegemonic.” It’s a harsh word, implying the US is acting like a dominant power, throwing its weight around. You can practically feel the disapproval radiating from Beijing. It’s a reaction that highlights the complex relationship between the two global superpowers and their conflicting interests.
The sentiment seems to be that this is another instance of the US flexing its muscle, and China isn’t happy about it. The implication is that the US is trying to maintain its global dominance and is willing to use force to do so.… Continue reading
In an effort to address declining birth rates, China has eliminated a three-decade-old tax exemption on contraceptive drugs and devices, implementing a 13% value-added tax on these items starting January 1st. This action follows the continued population decline, now in its third consecutive year, and numerous other “fertility-friendly” measures enacted in 2024, including childcare subsidies and promotion of positive marriage attitudes. The country is grappling with these demographic challenges, exacerbated by the lasting impacts of the one-child policy, urbanization, high childcare costs, and economic factors which have collectively discouraged marriage and family formation.
Read More
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker