A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Sunday called on the United States to ensure the personal safety of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife and to release them immediately.

The spokesperson said it is gravely concerned over the U.S. forcible seizure of Maduro and his wife and their removal from the country.

"The U.S. move is in clear violation of international law, basic norms in international relations, and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter," the spokesperson said, urging the U.S. to stop efforts to overthrow the Venezuelan government and to resolve disputes through dialogue and negotiation.