Russia’s Foreign Ministry has strongly criticized what it calls the United States’ “excessive military force” in the Caribbean Sea, where Washington has expanded operations targeting drug trafficking. The condemnation, issued Saturday by ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, accuses the U.S. of breaching both domestic and international laws through its militarized anti-narcotics campaign.
Zakharova stated that the use of heavy weaponry and large-scale deployments “violates the norms of international law” and raises concerns over Washington’s intentions in the region. The U.S. initiative, aimed at curbing illegal drug trade routes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, has reportedly resulted in the targeting of at least 14 vessels and the deaths of 61 people. In recent months, the United States has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying warships, fighter jets, and thousands of troops in what officials describe as a regional security effort.
Moscow, however, views the move as an aggressive geopolitical maneuver. Zakharova reaffirmed Russia’s “firm support for the Venezuelan leadership in defending its national sovereignty,” underscoring Russia’s alignment with President Nicolás Maduro’s government. The statement follows a May meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maduro in Moscow, where the two leaders signed a strategic partnership agreement to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Venezuelan President Maduro has long accused Washington of attempting to destabilize his government and orchestrate regime change through political and economic pressure. Russia’s remarks echo these claims, positioning Moscow as a key ally of Caracas amid escalating regional tensions.
The latest Russian statement highlights growing friction between Washington and Moscow beyond the Ukraine conflict, extending their rivalry into Latin America’s geopolitically sensitive zones.