Putin holds call with Maduro, backs Venezuela after US seizes oil tanker

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Thursday to express solidarity with Caracas following the U.S. military’s seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker off the country’s coast, according to a statement from the Kremlin.

The Kremlin said Putin reaffirmed support for the Maduro administration’s efforts to safeguard Venezuela’s sovereignty and national interests amid mounting international pressure. The two leaders also reviewed bilateral cooperation under a strategic partnership agreement signed earlier this year.

Washington steps up pressure on Caracas

The tanker seizure took place on Wednesday in the Eastern Pacific, where U.S. troops reportedly rappelled onto the vessel from a helicopter and entered the ship with rifles drawn. The operation has heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas.

U.S. authorities have accused Maduro of leading a drug trafficking organization, which the Venezuelan leader denies. Maduro claims Washington is seeking regime change in order to gain control over Venezuela’s extensive oil reserves.

President Donald Trump had previously ordered U.S. naval forces closer to Venezuelan waters. According to reports, American forces have carried out at least 22 operations against vessels in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific, resulting in 87 deaths.

A screen grab from a video posted by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi on her X account shows what she describes as the execution of “a seizure warrant for a crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran” off the coast of Venezuela, December 10, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Putin, Maduro reaffirm strategic partnership

Putin and Maduro discussed the implementation of joint projects under a wide-ranging bilateral cooperation framework. The agreement, which came into effect in November, outlines commitments in areas such as energy, trade, finance, and cultural engagement.

The Kremlin noted that both leaders reaffirmed their mutual intent to strengthen collaboration across these fields. Maduro previously traveled to Moscow to attend Russia’s annual military parade and sign the comprehensive partnership deal.

About the Author: Patriotman

Patriotman currently ekes out a survivalist lifestyle in a suburban northeastern state as best as he can. He has varied experience in political science, public policy, biological sciences, and higher education. Proudly Catholic and an Eagle Scout, he has no military experience and thus offers a relatable perspective for the average suburban prepper who is preparing for troubled times on the horizon with less than ideal teams and in less than ideal locations. Brushbeater Store Page: http://bit.ly/BrushbeaterStore