Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev criticized the U.S. operation that led to the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, asserting that it “had nothing to do with drugs — only oil.” Medvedev characterized the Trump administration as “tough and cynical” in advancing U.S. interests, questioning whether Washington can effectively govern Venezuela from afar.
Why It Matters
Medvedev’s comments signal Moscow’s disapproval of U.S. actions in Venezuela and highlight broader tensions over American influence in Latin America. By framing the operation as motivated by oil rather than drug enforcement, Medvedev underscores Russia’s concern over geopolitical and economic interests in the region, and challenges the U.S. narrative of targeting transnational criminal networks.
What to Know
In a post shared on X, Medvedev wrote, “Team Trump is tough and cynical in advancing its country’s interests. Removing Maduro had nothing to do with drugs – only oil, and they openly admit this. Lex fortissimum is clearly stronger than ordinary justice, but whether they can run Venezuela remotely is a big question.”
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also weighed in, urging the U.S. to reconsider its actions and release Maduro and his spouse, describing him as the “legitimately elected president of a sovereign country.”
What People Are Saying
Supporters of the U.S. operation argue that targeting Maduro is justified due to his alleged involvement in criminal and narcotics networks, as well as his history of human rights abuses. Critics, including Russian officials, insist that the action violates Venezuelan sovereignty and is driven by resource interests, particularly oil. Analysts note that Medvedev’s remarks are part of a broader Russian strategy to challenge Western influence in Latin America and assert Moscow’s geopolitical stance.
What Happens Next
Following Medvedev’s and the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statements, tensions between the U.S. and Russia over Latin America are likely to remain elevated. Observers anticipate that Moscow may increase diplomatic and media efforts to contest U.S. influence in Venezuela, while Washington continues to defend its narrative of enforcing sanctions and maintaining pressure on transnational criminal networks.
