Putin Reaffirms Support for Maduro Following US Seizure of Venezuelan Oil Tanker

Kremlin Confirms Support Amid Rising Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Moscow's unwavering support for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during a telephone conversation on Thursday, December 11, 2025. This diplomatic move came swiftly after the United States seized a Venezuelan oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela the previous day, an action that has significantly heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.

The Kremlin stated that Putin expressed 'solidarity with the Venezuelan people' and 'confirmed his support for the Maduro government's policy aimed at protecting national interests and sovereignty in the face of growing external pressure.' The Russian leader also reiterated Moscow's commitment to advancing joint projects with Venezuela across economic, energy, and other strategic sectors.

US Seizes 'The Skipper' Oil Tanker

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, US forces executed the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker identified as The Skipper. The operation involved US Coast Guard members and Marines rappelling from helicopters onto the vessel's deck. The tanker was reportedly carrying approximately 2 million barrels of crude oil and was allegedly involved in transporting sanctioned Venezuelan oil, with its destination believed to be Cuba.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the tanker had been under sanctions since 2022 due to its alleged involvement in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem linked the seizure to the Trump administration's broader counter-drug efforts in Latin America. President Donald Trump commented that the tanker was seized for a 'very good reason' and indicated the US intends to 'keep the oil.' White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt added that the US would not 'stand by and watch sanctioned vessels sail the seas with black market oil.'

Venezuela Condemns 'Act of Piracy'

In response to the seizure, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro vehemently condemned the action as a 'blatant theft' and an 'act of international piracy.' Maduro asserted that the true purpose of the US operations is to force him from office and to seize Venezuela's vast oil reserves. The Venezuelan government vowed to 'defend its sovereignty, natural resources, and national dignity with absolute determination.'

Deepening Alliances and Escalating Confrontations

The incident underscores the long-standing and complex relationship between Russia, Venezuela, and the United States. Russia and Venezuela maintain a strategic partnership, with President Maduro having visited Moscow earlier this year to sign a comprehensive partnership agreement. This alliance has seen Russia provide various forms of assistance to Venezuela, including support in energy and economic sectors.

Conversely, the US has consistently increased pressure on the Maduro government, implementing sanctions and enhancing its military presence in the Caribbean. Washington has accused Maduro of leading a drug cartel, a charge he denies, claiming the US seeks regime change. The seizure of 'The Skipper' marks a significant escalation in these ongoing international tensions.