Moscow: Russia has issued a strong condemnation of a recent U.S. military strike on a vessel off the coast of Venezuela, which the United States claims was transporting illegal narcotics. The strike, conducted on October 3, resulted in the deaths of four individuals aboard the vessel, according to U.S. Department of Defense reports. Washington described the operation as part of its ongoing efforts to combat international drug trafficking, framing it as a “non-international armed conflict” targeting cartel networks.
In a phone call with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed Moscow’s “serious concern” over what he termed the United States’ escalating actions in the Caribbean Sea. Lavrov warned that such military interventions could destabilize the region and have far-reaching consequences for international security. Russia’s statement emphasizes its support for Venezuela’s sovereignty and signals growing disapproval of unilateral U.S. operations in the region.
The vessel, according to U.S. authorities, was allegedly carrying significant amounts of narcotics bound for American markets. President Donald Trump defended the strike as a necessary measure against organized crime, asserting that U.S. forces are committed to dismantling drug trafficking networks. However, questions have been raised about the strike’s legality, with some analysts noting that the U.S. has not publicly provided evidence that the vessel was armed or posed an immediate threat. Moreover, the targeted group, the Tren de Aragua cartel, has not been officially designated as a terrorist organization by U.S. authorities.
The incident has further strained U.S.-Venezuela relations. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the strike, accusing the United States of violating Venezuela’s sovereignty and engaging in provocative actions near its territorial waters. Russia’s strong reaction adds to the chorus of international criticism, highlighting growing global unease over U.S. military interventions in Latin America.
Regional and international observers are closely monitoring developments, concerned that the incident could escalate tensions in the Caribbean. The strike underscores the complex interplay between drug interdiction efforts, regional security, and international law, raising difficult questions about the balance between combating criminal networks and respecting national sovereignty. As the situation unfolds, the world watches for any diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict in an already volatile region.