On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin had a phone conversation with Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, reiterating Russia’s support amid the rising external pressures faced by Maduro’s administration, according to a Kremlin statement.
Putin emphasized backing for Maduro “in the face of increasing external pressure” as the U.S., under President Donald Trump, continues to call for his ousting. Reports indicate the U.S. has intensified military actions in the Caribbean, part of an ongoing strategy to apply pressure.
The leaders touched on shared interests in enhancing their strategic partnership and collaborating on economic and energy projects. Russia regards Venezuela as a significant ally in Latin America, particularly under conditions of international sanctions and isolation.
The call followed the U.S. seizure of a large, licensed Venezuelan oil tanker, further straining the already tense relations between Caracas and Washington. The Venezuelan government condemned this action as a violation of sovereignty and accused the U.S. of undermining its economic interests. The Trump administration has stepped up actions targeting Venezuela’s oil industry, which is critical to Maduro’s regime despite its long decline.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that federal agencies, including the FBI and the Coast Guard, were involved in “Operation Tanker,” releasing non-classified videos showing the seizure, carried out under a federal warrant linked to sanctions violations. Trump acknowledged that this operation resulted in the largest tanker being confiscated by the U.S., an event that reportedly caused oil prices to rise, adding further tension to U.S.-Venezuela relations.
Relations between Russia and Venezuela
Russia and Venezuela have sustained a close partnership for over two decades, strengthening during Hugo Chávez’s presidency and continuing under Maduro. Cooperation spans defense, energy production, and financial support, according to reports.
In recent years, Russia has supplied military equipment to Venezuela and supported its state oil company through joint ventures, extending loans and credit lines to maintain some functionality in the country’s oil sector. In fact, Venezuela has received billions in loans tied to its oil exports from Russia.
Despite facing international sanctions, Russia has consistently viewed Venezuela as a strategic ally. Reports suggest this partnership is resilient and not easily swayed by immediate political shifts or external pressures. Even in light of Venezuela’s deepening internal crisis and growing U.S. pressures, Russia maintains its diplomatic and economic backing.
