Putin Reaffirms Support for Maduro Amid Rising U.S. Pressure on Venezuela
CARACAS, Venezuela — Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Thursday, reaffirming Moscow’s steadfast support as the U.S. intensifies pressure on the Maduro government. The Kremlin’s statement described the call as a show of solidarity amid what it called “growing external pressure,” as Washington ramps up efforts to isolate Caracas and push for regime change.
Putin and Maduro discussed advancing their strategic partnership and moving forward with joint economic and energy projects, underscoring the long-standing alliance between the two nations. Russia has been a key backer of Venezuela since the era of Hugo Chávez, providing diplomatic, economic, and military support as both countries face international sanctions and diplomatic isolation.
The phone call followed a high-profile U.S. operation that seized a massive Venezuelan oil tanker off the country’s coast. The vessel, sanctioned by the United States, was intercepted by federal agencies including the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the seizure, releasing unclassified footage showing the operation, which was executed under a federal warrant related to sanctions violations.
The Trump administration described the tanker as the largest ever seized by the U.S., a move that further strained relations with Caracas. The Venezuelan government condemned the seizure as a violation of its sovereignty and accused Washington of hostile economic aggression. The incident caused a spike in global oil prices, highlighting the significance of Venezuela’s oil sector, which remains the backbone of Maduro’s government despite years of economic decline.
In addition to the maritime operation, the U.S. has increased military presence in the Caribbean, signaling a more assertive posture. President Donald Trump has publicly warned that land operations inside Venezuela could occur “very soon,” citing threats posed by the Maduro regime.
The Kremlin’s reaffirmation of support comes at a critical juncture, as the U.S. pursues a comprehensive crackdown on Venezuela’s oil industry and alleged narcotrafficking networks. Analysts note that Moscow views Venezuela as a strategic partner in Latin America, and the two countries’ cooperation on energy and economic fronts remains a priority despite mounting external pressures.
For more information on the U.S. enforcement efforts, see the Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of State websites, which provide updates on sanctions and diplomatic initiatives related to Venezuela.
As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely how the interplay between U.S. pressure and Russian backing will shape Venezuela’s political and economic future.
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