Russia backs Venezuela amidst US tensions: Putin pledges support to Maduro
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): The ongoing tension between the US and Venezuela now appears to be turning into a confrontation between the two superpowers. After US President Donald Trump threatened a ground invasion of Venezuela, Russian President Vladimir Putin has also taken the lead. Amidst this serious atmosphere, Putin has called Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and openly expressed his support, which has escalated tensions in the Caribbean and deepened the possibility of a major war.
During his talks with Maduro, the Russian President expressed full solidarity with the Venezuelan people and reiterated Russia's commitment to defending the country's sovereignty against foreign pressure. According to the Kremlin, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Strategic Partnership Treaty signed in May. Putin supported Maduro's efforts to strengthen peace, political stability, and economic development in the country. This diplomatic move is being seen as a clear message to the US that Russia stands firmly with its ally.
This geopolitical turmoil intensified when, on December 10, 2025, the US military seized the crude oil tanker "Skipper" in international waters off the Venezuelan coast. US Attorney General Pam Bondi claimed that the ship was previously under sanctions for allegedly carrying oil from Iran. However, Venezuela has simply dismissed it as "piracy." This action is part of Trump's "military pressure campaign," which has so far attacked more than 20 boats in operations against alleged drug boats, claiming more than 87 lives.
The Trump administration says that Venezuela has become a hub of drug trafficking and that the Maduro government is supporting drug cartels. However, experts believe that America's real aim is to overthrow the Maduro government and gain control of Venezuela's vast oil reserves. Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves and its economy is completely dependent on oil. Venezuela has reacted sharply to the American action. Senior government minister Diosdado Cabello even called America a 'thief', 'murderer' and 'bandit'.
President Maduro has called Washington's actions "colonial," warning of a "crazy war" in the region. He has stated clearly that his government has nothing to do with drug trafficking and will go to any lengths to defend his country. In response to US threats, Venezuela has accelerated the recruitment of new troops and has suspended international flights into the country. The threat of war has raised concerns in South America, as Trump has clearly indicated that ground attacks could soon begin, although this has not yet been officially announced.