Russia’s foreign ministry on Thursday cautioned Washington against taking drastic action in Venezuela, expressing concern that U.S. policies could endanger global navigation and regional stability. The warning came after President Donald Trump ordered a “blockade” of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela in an effort to tighten pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government.
Moscow Urges Caution and Dialogue
In a statement, Moscow said it hoped the Trump administration, known for its “rational and pragmatic approach,” would not make what it described as a “fatal mistake.” The ministry reaffirmed that Venezuela remained a close ally of Russia and warned that any escalation by Washington could lead to “unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere.”
The comments followed an effective embargo on Venezuelan oil exports after U.S. authorities seized a sanctioned tanker off the country’s coast last week. Several vessels carrying millions of barrels of crude have since remained anchored in Venezuelan waters to avoid the risk of confiscation.
Defence of Sovereignty and Regional Stability
Invoking the words of Venezuelan independence hero Simón Bolívar, Russia reminded Washington that “every nation has the right to choose its own rulers” and that foreign powers must respect this principle. Moscow urged the U.S. to avoid further interference and instead pursue a “normalisation of dialogue” with Caracas.
Russia also reiterated its “solidarity with the Venezuelan people in the face of the trials they are going through,” reaffirming support for President Maduro’s efforts to defend what it described as Venezuela’s national interests and sovereignty.
Strategic and Political Stakes
The latest tensions underscore the deep divisions between Washington and Moscow over Latin America. While the U.S. continues to impose economic sanctions to weaken Maduro’s administration, Russia remains one of Venezuela’s most significant backers, offering political support and energy cooperation.
Moscow’s statement signals its intent to counterbalance U.S. influence in the region while positioning itself as a defender of national sovereignty amid ongoing geopolitical competition.
(with inputs from Reuters)
