Russia has intensified its criticism of U.S. sanctions against Venezuela, with Ambassador Sergey Melik-Bagdasarov calling the oil embargo a "violation of international law" during a Friday interview with RIA Novosti. The diplomat warned that restricting Venezuela's oil exports – which account for 95% of the nation's foreign currency earnings – directly endangers the health and livelihoods of millions.
"Draining Venezuela's economic lifeblood isn't just about energy markets – it's about survival," Melik-Bagdasarov stated, emphasizing that Caracas remains willing to supply oil to all partners, including the United States. He attributed stalled negotiations to Washington's "neocolonial rhetoric" and unilateral measures.
This condemnation follows years of Russian support for President Nicolás Maduro's government, with Moscow repeatedly advocating for normalized energy trade. Analysts note the embargo's ripple effects are currently destabilizing global oil markets, with Brent crude prices fluctuating amid supply uncertainties.
As Venezuela's economic crisis enters its second decade in 2026, the geopolitical standoff highlights growing tensions between energy-producing nations and Western sanctions regimes. International law experts debate the legality of unilateral embargoes under UN frameworks, while humanitarian organizations report worsening medical shortages in Caracas.
