According to the state oil company Petróleos de, Venezuelan oil exports are falling Venezuela SA (PDVSA) continues despite a blockade announced by US President Donald Trump. This was done “in the legitimate exercise of the right to free navigation and free trade,” the company said. Trump ordered a complete blockade of all sanctioned tankers entering Venezuela or leaving the South American country on Wednesday morning.

Against this background, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil contacted his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. In the telephone conversation they discussed threats to Venezuela as well as possible risks for Latin America and the Caribbean, Gil wrote on Instagram. China reaffirmed its solidarity and “determined support” for Venezuela.

Gil also said he sent a message from Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Foreign Minister did not provide any further information about their content.

This article will continue to be updated.