CARACAS/BEIJING/NEW YORK: Russia has pledged full political and diplomatic support to Venezuela as tensions escalate following US action against sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers in the Caribbean.
Read More: Oil price rise on US sanctions, Venezuela tanker risks
The commitment was conveyed during a phone call between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Venezuelan counterpart Yvan Gil. Both sides strongly criticised Washington’s measures, warning that they could destabilise the region and threaten international maritime trade.
In a statement, Russia’s foreign ministry said the ministers expressed deep concern over what they described as an escalation of US actions, including the seizure of oil tankers and attacks on vessels. Moscow reaffirmed its solidarity with Venezuela and stressed the importance of respecting state sovereignty.
pic.twitter.com/Iovz2MCUQv🚨 Rubio: We’re not concerned about escalation with Russia over Venezuela. They have their hands full in Ukraine.
We’ve always expected rhetorical support for the Maduro regime.
If he’s watching, Sergey [Lavrov, Russian FM], Merry Christmas.
— Geo Frontline (@geofrontlinetv) December 23, 2025
The two ministers also agreed to strengthen coordination at international forums, particularly the United Nations, to counter what they termed interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs. Russia said it would continue close bilateral cooperation with Caracas in the current situation.
Venezuela’s foreign minister said the discussion focused on alleged violations of international law by the United States. He accused Washington of carrying out acts of piracy, attacks on vessels and other unlawful actions in international waters.
The developments follow US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a blockade targeting sanctioned oil vessels linked to Venezuela. US officials have said the measures aim to curb alleged illicit activities funded through oil revenues, a claim strongly denied by Caracas and its allies.
China also weighed in on the issue, condemning the seizure of foreign ships as a serious violation of international law. Beijing reiterated its opposition to unilateral sanctions and said Venezuela had the right to maintain relations with other countries.
Meanwhile, oil markets reacted to the rising geopolitical tensions. Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate prices both rose by over two per cent, driven by fears of potential disruptions to Venezuelan oil exports and additional concerns over attacks on Russian shipping infrastructure.
Read More: US preparing to seize more tankers off Venezuela’s coast: sources
Analysts said the situation had prompted markets to reassess risks that were previously considered limited, adding uncertainty to global energy supplies.