Moscow condemns American moves near Venezuela and reaffirms its solidarity with Caracas

The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its firm rejection of the United States deploying warships off the Venezuelan coast, reaffirming its full solidarity with the government and people of Venezuela and their right to self-determination free from external pressures.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated in a press release: "Russia does not accept the threat of using force against sovereign states as a tool of foreign policy, and we affirm our support for Venezuela, both government and people, in its inalienable right to choose its political, economic, and social path."

Zakharova emphasized that methods of external intervention and "color revolutions" must come to an end, noting that Moscow is in direct contact with Caracas within the framework of a close strategic partnership.

The Russian stance came after the United States deployed three warships believed to carry about 4,000 Marines near Venezuela, which Caracas considered "a provocative step and an attempt to destabilize the region."

Earlier, the White House hinted at Washington's readiness to use "all American tools of power," including military options, against Venezuela under the pretext of combating drug trafficking, while the U.S. Attorney General announced a reward of $50 million for information leading to the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro.

For his part, Maduro announced plans to strengthen the Bolivarian militia forces – which include about 4.5 million fighters – as part of a "national plan to protect sovereignty and peace," asserting that his country would confront any attempt at external intervention.

It is worth noting that Russia, China, Iran, and the Bolivarian Alliance countries renewed their support for Venezuela, calling for respect for international law and non-interference in the sovereignty of the countries in the region.