Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart Ivan Hill, discussing Washington's latest actions in the Caribbean Sea, which Moscow says threaten the region and international shipping. This was reported by "Interfax", citing a statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry, News.bg reports.
The statement states that Russia confirms its full support and solidarity with the Venezuelan leadership and people, and that the ministers will coordinate their actions in international forums, including the UN, to respect the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs.
Hill confirmed that Russia intends to express its support for Venezuela at the UN Security Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday. “Lavrov resolutely expressed Russia's solidarity with the Venezuelan people and President Nicolas Maduro and confirmed its full support in response to the hostile actions against our country“, EFE reports.
Earlier, Hill discussed the US threats with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, receiving his support.
US President Donald Trump warned of a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers traveling to Venezuela and declared the Venezuelan government a foreign terrorist organization. The US Coast Guard has already intercepted at least three tankers off the Venezuelan coast.
The Venezuelan government said it would draw the international community's attention to the violations of international law and would appeal to the UN Security Council. China also condemned the US actions, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stressing that the seizure of ships is a serious violation of international law and that Venezuela has the right to develop relations with other countries, with China opposing unilateral and illegal sanctions.