Russia has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to prevent the situation with Venezuela from escalating into a larger conflict, according to statements by Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov to the TASS news agency.
The official emphasized that Moscow stands "shoulder to shoulder" with the Caracas government amid the worsening political and diplomatic climate in the region.
Ryabkov expressed "great alarm and concern" over the Venezuelan situation, noting that tensions "remain high" and are continuing to escalate. The diplomat attributed this climate to Washington's attempt to establish "undisputed dominance in the region," which he described as a hallmark of the Trump administration.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that Russia and Venezuela recently signed a strategic partnership and cooperation agreement, strengthening their bilateral ties. Within this framework, he affirmed that Moscow fully supports Caracas and its political leadership during this crisis.
Ryabkov insisted that the Kremlin hopes the White House will refrain from taking actions that could exacerbate the situation and lead to open conflict. "We urge against moving in that direction," he emphasized.
Increasing Tensions in the Caribbean
In recent weeks, tensions in the Caribbean have risen, fueled by a military and diplomatic buildup that Washington justifies as part of its "war on drugs." The increase in air and naval patrols, along with the presence of specialized Pentagon units, has shifted the regional balance at a particularly sensitive time.
The United States, which has targeted vessels linked to drug trafficking, maintains that its priority is to curb the trafficking routes that cross the Caribbean into its territory. It argues that the increasing sophistication of cartels demands a stronger response.
However, critics point out that these actions coincide with Washington's growing interest in containing the influence of non-regional actors and eliminating the dictatorship of Nicolás Maduro.
In this context, the region watches with concern as anti-drug rhetoric mingles with naval maneuvers, diplomatic warnings, and realignments of alliances. The escalation not only poses risks to stability—from military incidents to tensions among neighboring countries—but also has the potential to turn the Caribbean into a stage for a broader geopolitical struggle.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Venezuela Conflict
Why is Russia concerned about the situation in Venezuela?
Russia is concerned because it has strategic partnerships with Venezuela and wants to prevent further escalation that could lead to conflict, affecting their interests in the region.
What actions has the United States taken in the Caribbean related to Venezuela?
The United States has increased military and naval patrols, claiming it is part of its anti-drug efforts. This includes targeting vessels linked to drug trafficking to curb routes into U.S. territory.
How do critics view the U.S. military buildup in the region?
Critics argue that the U.S. military buildup coincides with its interest in curbing the influence of external actors and removing Nicolás Maduro's regime, rather than solely focusing on drug trafficking.