Russia condemns US attack on Venezuela, says justifications lack factual basis

Russia has strongly condemned what it described as an act of “armed aggression” by the United States against Venezuela.

Several explosions rocked Caracas early Saturday, with parts of the Venezuelan capital cut off from the electricity grid.

Hours later, US President Donald Trump announced on social media that his country has successfully captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Russian ministry of foreign affairs warned that the development risks further destabilising the region and called for an urgent diplomatic response.

The ministry said the US action is “extremely concerning and deserving of condemnation”, adding that the reasons to justify the action were unfounded.

“The justifications put forward for these actions have no factual basis. Ideological hostility has prevailed over pragmatic, businesslike approaches and over efforts to build relationships based on trust and predictability,” the statement reads.

“Under the present circumstances, it is particularly important to prevent any further escalation and focus on seeking a resolution through dialogue.

”We believe that all parties with existing grievances should pursue solutions to their problems by engaging in dialogue. We stand ready to assist in these efforts.”

Reiterating its position on regional stability, Russia said Latin America should continue to be treated as a zone of peace, in line with a declaration adopted by countries in the region in 2014.

The statement added that Venezuela must be allowed to “determine its own future without destructive external interference, particularly of a military nature”.

Russia also expressed political support for the Venezuelan government and people.

“We reaffirm our solidarity with the Venezuelan people and our support for the policy pursued by the Bolivarian leadership to safeguard the country’s national interests and sovereignty,” the ministry said.

The ministry said Russia supports calls by Venezuelan authorities and several Latin American leaders for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the situation.

“The Russian Embassy in Caracas continues to operate as usual under the current conditions and remains in constant contact with the Venezuelan authorities as well as with Russian nationals in Venezuela. At present, there are no reports of injuries among Russian citizens,” the statement added.(The Cable)