Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to refrain from making a 'serious mistake' in handling the Venezuela crisis, following Washington’s decision to impose a full blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers. Putin said Moscow maintains constant communication with its ally Caracas and emphasized the need for restraint.

Trump announced the blockade on December 16 via his Truth Social platform, claiming Venezuela uses oil revenues to fund drug trafficking and criminal activities. The move has heightened tensions between Washington and the government of President Nicolás Maduro, though Caracas insists its crude exports remain unaffected. Meanwhile, U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific regions near Venezuela has reportedly increased, with several deadly strikes reported.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry expressed hope that the White House would avoid a grave error and reiterated Moscow’s firm support for Maduro’s government. Analysts warn that escalating U.S.-Venezuela friction could further destabilize the region and complicate global energy markets.