The Russian government has expressed strong disapproval of the recent US restrictions imposed on oil transactions in Venezuela, describing these measures as blatant discrimination. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized that despite the US imposition of restrictions, countries like Russia, China, and Iran have made significant investments in Venezuela's oil and energy sectors. This dramatic contrast highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding energy control in the region, particularly given the significance of Venezuela's vast oil reserves.

According to Lavrov, the Kremlin plans to address these issues directly with the US government, indicating the seriousness of the matter for Russia's strategic interests in Venezuela. In conjunction with this, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov remarked on the long-term projects Russia has established in Venezuela, further underscoring the level of investment and involvement Russia has committed to the region. This indicates that Russia is not merely a passive observer in the geopolitical landscape but an active participant willing to engage diplomatically over its national interests.

The backdrop of this situation stems from broader US efforts, as reflected in President Donald Trump's stated ambitions to control the world's largest oil reserves in Venezuela alongside American oil companies. This ambition complicates the international dynamics at play, particularly as it presents a challenge to other nations vying for influence in the region, namely Russia, China, and Iran. Such actions not only have implications for international relations but also raise questions about the future of Venezuela's economy and its energy sector, which has been in decline due to both internal and external pressures.