Russia reaffirms backing for Venezuela after US military strikes

Russia has firmly reiterated its backing for Venezuela's government in the wake of recent US military strikes, while dismissing as false reports about the physical whereabouts of a senior Venezuelan official. The developments follow a high-level conversation between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, underscoring Moscow's stance amid the escalating crisis.

Diplomatic Show of Solidarity

In a statement released on Saturday, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Lavrov expressed Russia's "firm solidarity with the people of Venezuela in the face of armed aggression" during his call with Rodriguez. The discussion focused on the ongoing situation following the US intervention, with Moscow emphasizing its continued support for the political direction of President Nicolás Maduro's administration. This diplomatic support comes as Venezuela grapples with the aftermath of what it describes as attacks on both civilian and military sites.

Denial of Vice President's Presence

Separately, Russian officials moved to quash speculation about Rodriguez's location. The Foreign Ministry told the state-run TASS news agency that recent claims indicating the Venezuelan vice president was physically present in Russia were entirely false, labeling them a "hoax." This clarification seeks to address rumors that had circulated following the US military action and the reported capture of President Maduro.

Context of the Crisis

The US strikes, which former President Donald Trump described as a "large scale" operation resulting in Maduro's capture, mark a dramatic escalation in long-standing tensions between Washington and Caracas. The US has repeatedly accused Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking, allegations he has consistently denied while expressing openness to dialogue. Venezuela has declared a national emergency and accused the US of targeting multiple installations across the country. Russia's reaffirmed support positions it as a key international ally for Caracas during this volatile period.