Russia reaffirms its support for Venezuela and criticizes the "pressure" from the United States in the Caribbean

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported on December 22 that its head, Serguéi Lavrov, held a phone conversation with the Venezuelan chancellor, Iván Gil, in which both expressed their "serious concern" over the escalating actions of Washington in the Caribbean Sea, which —according to Moscow— threaten regional stability and international navigation.

According to an official statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov reaffirmed "comprehensive support and solidarity with the leadership and people of Venezuela" amid rising tensions between Caracas and Washington, marked by recent U.S. military maneuvers near Venezuelan shores and warnings from President Donald Trump against the regime of Nicolás Maduro.

"The foreign ministers agreed on the need to maintain close coordination at both the bilateral and multilateral levels, primarily within the UN, to ensure respect for the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs," the Russian ministry added in its statement.

The support from Moscow comes just a week after the Kremlin accused the United States of “deliberately provoking” a crisis in the Caribbean, and amidst a tightening of Washington's rhetoric towards Maduro's allies.

This Monday, Trump warned that if the Venezuelan leader "acts tough, it will be the last time", in a clear indication that the White House is considering more decisive measures against Caracas.

Venezuela, for its part, has intensified its contacts with Russia, China, and Iran, seeking political and military support against what it describes as an "imperialist threat."

In November, Venezuelan state media confirmed discussions with Moscow regarding the possible supply of anti-aircraft missiles and technological cooperation, while the Kremlin insisted on its "commitment to the stability and security of the Caribbean."

International analysts believe that the alliance between Russia and Venezuela is part of the Kremlin's strategy to expand its influence in Latin America and counter Washington's foreign policy in the region.

However, the rapprochement between both governments has been criticized by Venezuelan opponents and Western observers, who warn about the growing dependence of Maduro's regime on Russian military and financial support.

With this new statement, Moscow strengthens its message of support for Caracas and joins the rhetoric of confrontation with the United States, in an increasingly tense scenario that echoes the geopolitical balances of the Cold War.