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Russia Backs Venezuela Amidst U.S. Blockade of Oil Tankers
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Published December 22, 2025, at 22:33:24
Overview
On December 22, 2025, Russia voiced its full support for Venezuela following a U.S. proclamation of a blockade targeting oil tankers sanctioned for trade with Venezuela. The move,initiated by the Trump management,aims to disrupt Venezuela’s oil revenue stream,which the U.S. alleges funds illicit activities. Both countries condemned the U.S. actions as escalatory and possibly hazardous in the Caribbean Sea.
The U.S. Blockade and Allegations
Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration announced a blockade of ships suspected of transporting Venezuelan oil, citing concerns that the revenue generated is used to finance “drug terrorism, human trafficking, murder, and kidnapping.” Reuters reported on similar U.S. actions targeting Venezuelan oil shipments in the past, reflecting a long-standing strategy to pressure the Maduro government.
The U.S. Navy has reportedly been authorized to intercept and search vessels suspected of violating sanctions, leading to the seizure of two tankers. The U.S. government maintains thes actions are necessary to disrupt criminal networks and uphold international law.
Russian Response and Diplomatic Support
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reportedly affirmed Moscow’s “full support” for Venezuela in the face of what he characterized as hostility from the United States. This support was conveyed during a telephone conversation with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza. Telesur, a Venezuelan-based news outlet, detailed the conversation, stating both ministers expressed “deep concern” over the U.S. escalation in the Caribbean Sea.
Russia has consistently been a key ally of Venezuela, providing economic and military assistance to the Maduro government. This support is seen as a counterweight to U.S. influence in the region and a exhibition of Russia’s broader geopolitical strategy.
Historical Context: U.S. Sanctions on Venezuela
The U.S. has imposed increasingly stringent sanctions on Venezuela since 2017, targeting individuals, entities, and the oil sector. These sanctions were initially implemented in response to concerns about human rights abuses, corruption, and the erosion of democratic institutions under the Maduro government. The Council on Foreign Relations provides a comprehensive overview of the history of U.S. sanctions on Venezuela.
| year | Sanction Type | Target |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Individual Sanctions | Venezuelan officials accused of human rights abuses |
| 2019 | Sectoral Sanctions | Venezuelan
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