Moscow balances ideological loyalty with strategic realism, approaching the Venezuelan situation carefully to safeguard its interests and prevent escalating tensions. Photo: Moscow Kremlin, Russia / Pavel Kazachkov.
On Monday, the Kremlin reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining relations with Venezuela, a nation it has engaged with following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3. This official stance is part of a recent string of reactions demonstrating a unified discourse in defending bilateral ties, while also highlighting critical nuances regarding the Chavista regime.
In recent days, various Russian officials and diplomats have issued public statements, including denunciations of the military operation and warnings about potential internal betrayals.
Official Voices Defend Venezuela
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, underscored the ongoing relationship with Venezuela despite recent changes, stating: “We have independent bilateral relations, several projects to continue, and investments in Venezuela.” Peskov noted that he “knows well” Delcy Rodríguez, the current interim president, and maintains regular contact with Venezuela, according to Russian agency TASS.
On Sunday, Sergei Ryabkov, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister for North and South America, condemned the capture as a “flagrant violation of numerous provisions of international law.” Ryabkov insisted that Moscow has been demanding the release of Maduro and Flores “from the very first hours,” although he didn’t rule out the possibility of offering them political asylum, even if that is not currently under consideration, per TASS.
Days earlier, on January 14, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov intensified the rhetoric by stating that “the United States is crushing the world with its attack on Venezuela and its threats to Iran,” according to Reuters. Later in his annual address, he claimed that the U.S. had carried out a “brutal armed invasion” through the capture of President Maduro.
Criticism and Silences from Key Actors
On Sunday, Russian ambassador to Venezuela Sergei Melik-Bagdasarov criticized local military negligence during the U.S. operation: “There were at least two shots and both missed their target,” citing poor training in Russian anti-aircraft systems like the Igla. He also accused internal betrayals: “We know the names of these traitors who fled Venezuela,” he said on Rossiya-24.
Despite the variety of reactions from the Russian government, President Vladimir Putin himself has not issued a clear condemnation of the U.S. intervention in Venezuela. However, he did voice support for Cuba’s resolve in defending its sovereignty, following tensions with the U.S. after Maduro’s capture and the deaths of 32 Cuban fighters trying to protect him.
At the end of 2025, the Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Russia and Venezuela was enacted, solidifying bilateral alliances in political, military, and energy matters. The Kremlin’s caution aims to maintain the coherence of that pact, showcasing support for its allies while avoiding further escalation of diplomatic conflict with Washington.
Distancing Without Breaking Ties
The Russian narrative consistently denounces U.S. intervention as illegal, reaffirming commitments to Venezuela and prioritizing investments and long-term military cooperation. While some diplomats direct external criticism towards Washington, government spokespersons emphasize economic pragmatism.
It is significant to note the subtle contradictions that arise: direct blame is placed on Venezuelan personnel for negligence and betrayal, alongside an unconditional defense of Chavista leadership. This tension indicates that Russia seeks to distance itself from operational failures without severing alliances, while being careful not to openly support a regime that appears vulnerable.