UPDATE: Russia has issued a stern warning to the United States regarding its military operations against Venezuela, cautioning that these actions could lead to a “fatal mistake.” This urgent statement comes as the U.S. intensifies its blockade on sanctioned oil tankers tied to the Venezuelan government, a move that Moscow claims threatens international shipping.
In an official statement, Russia’s Foreign Ministry underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the blockade ordered by President Donald Trump poses significant risks to global maritime safety. The ministry remarked, “We hope that the D. Trump administration, characterized by a rational and pragmatic approach, will not make a fatal mistake.”
The implications of this warning are profound, as Russia also cautioned that any aggressive military moves could yield “unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere.” This declaration highlights the escalating tensions as the U.S. ramps up military presence in the region, deploying warships and thousands of personnel since September 2023.
Moscow’s warning follows a recent phone call between Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Putin reaffirmed his support for Maduro’s government and policies. According to the Kremlin, this call was aimed at expressing solidarity with the Venezuelan people amidst growing U.S. military pressure.
In response to these developments, the White House downplayed concerns over Russia’s backing of Venezuela. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “I don’t think that would be concerning to the president at all,” suggesting that the administration remains steadfast in its strategy against the Maduro regime.
Analysts express skepticism regarding the effectiveness of Russian and Chinese support for Venezuela. According to Fernando Reyes Matta, director of the Center for China Studies at Universidad Andrés Bello, Maduro is facing diminishing time, and while rhetorical support exists, tangible military assistance from either Russia or China is unlikely given their respective challenges.
As tensions rise, the situation remains fluid, with analysts closely monitoring the U.S. response and the potential for further military actions. The consequences of a miscalculation could reverberate beyond the Caribbean, affecting international relations and security in the region.
Moving forward, the world will be watching closely as the U.S. and Russia navigate these precarious waters. As military operations escalate, the stakes have never been higher for both nations and for Venezuela.
