Russia Condemns ‘Deeply Concerning’ U.S. Operations in Venezuela

Daban Mohammed 03/01/2026
Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a Security Council meeting via videolink in Moscow on December 26, 2025. Photo: Mikhail Metzel / POOL / AFP
Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a Security Council meeting via videolink in Moscow on December 26, 2025. Photo: Mikhail Metzel / POOL / AFP

The Russian foreign ministry condemned the “deeply concerning” U.S. operation against Venezuela that led to the capture of its leader, Nicolas Maduro, expressing solidarity with the country.

The ministry said in a statement on Saturday that Washington committed an act of “armed aggression” against Venezuela.

“This is deeply concerning and condemnable," the ministry added.

Russia indicated that the reasons given to justify these actions are not convincing. ”Ideological hostility has triumphed over businesslike pragmatism.”

Moscow Reaffirms Support for Venezuela

The ministry emphasized that Moscow reaffirms solidarity with the Venezuelan people, adding, “Our support for the course pursued by its Bolivarian leadership to defend the country’s national interests and sovereignty.”

Moscow Warned Against Military Action as U.S. Pressure Mounts

Moscow previously warned against military actions against the country amid intensifying Washington’s pressure campaign against Caracas in recent months.

According to Washington, the country was leading a drug cartel, and in response, U.S. forces carried out strikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific in late 2025, with major operations occurring in September.

Maduro Captured During Military Operation, Says Trump

Commenting on the ouster of Venezuelan leader, Trump said last month that it would be "smart for him [Maduro] to do that." But, again, we’re going to find out."

According to Trump’s announcement on Saturday, during a “large-scale strike” and military operation, Maduro, along with his wife, was captured and “flown out of the country.”

U.S. Does Not Expect Further Military Action

Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the United States does not anticipate further military action in Venezuela after Maduro's arrest, according to Senator Mike Lee.

Lee said Rubio informed him that Maduro had been arrested by U.S. personnel to stand trial on criminal charges.

Daban Mohammed

03/01/2026