Russia reiterates support for Venezuela, urges de-escalation between Washington, Caracas

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA)—The Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday reiterated support for Venezuela, noting that it consistently advocates normalization of dialogue between Washington, DC, and Caracas.

The ministry issued a statement urging the parties to take steps to de-escalate the situation.

"Russia consistently advocates for the normalization of dialogue between Washington and Caracas. We are convinced that steps are needed to de-escalate the situation and find solutions to existing problems and differences in a constructive manner, with respect for international legal norms," it said.

The ministry emphasized that Latin America and the Caribbean should remain a zone of peace, ensuring that the region's countries develop steadily and independently.

"We reaffirm our solidarity with the Venezuelan people in the face of trials they are experiencing, as well as our support for the course pursued by the (President) Nicolas Maduro government aimed at defending national interests and the sovereignty of the homeland," it said.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a complete blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers traveling to and from Venezuela.

Trump threatened Venezuela with unprecedented shock, demanding that Caracas return allegedly "stolen" oil, land, and other assets from the US.

The statement came amid promises by Trump to soon begin strikes against drug traffickers on land as part of Washington's fight against narcotics trafficking off the coasts of Central and South America.

Earlier, Venezuela's Permanent Representative to the UN, Samuel Moncada, likened current US policy to the actions of aggressors during World War II and stated that the Trump administration is destabilizing international relations.