, Jan. 4 -- China on Sunday called on the United States to immediately release Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, expressing serious concern over their seizure by U.S. forces.

A spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said Beijing was responding to reports that U.S. forces captured Maduro and his wife on Saturday and took them out of Venezuela, drawing objections from several countries.

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China said the move constituted a clear violation of international law, fundamental norms governing international relations, and the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.

The spokesperson urged the United States to ensure the personal safety of Maduro and his wife,...