Putin remains silent over US involvement in Venezuelan presidents disappearance
January 6, 2026 • Al Jazeera
US Military Action in Venezuela Affects Russia and China
The US military has struck air defense systems and radars supplied to Venezuela, which are part of a strategic alliance with Moscow. The operation resulted in the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on drug trafficking charges. Maduro was taken into custody by US Delta Force commandos before being transported to New York for trial.
Experts say that Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, may seek to benefit from the US intervention but also worry about potential repercussions. The capture of Maduro has damaged the Kremlin’s international reputation, particularly with regards to its relationship with Latin American countries.
Putin’s stance on the matter is notable, as he refrained from commenting publicly despite calling the operation an “unacceptable act of armed aggression.” Analysts believe that Putin may be concerned about being targeted by US forces in the future.
The consequences for Russia are multifaceted. The country’s reputation has suffered due to its association with Maduro, who was seen as a key ally in Latin America. Additionally, some experts suggest that the US is establishing a new world order based on prioritizing force over international law.
One theory is that Trump and Putin discussed limitations on spheres of interest during their August summit in Alaska. This could have led to concessions from Trump regarding Ukraine in exchange for future cooperation on hydrocarbon development in Russia’s Arctic regions.
The US has also expressed interest in controlling Greenland, which could provide access to the northern part of the world. Control over Russia’s oilfields and the Bazhenovska Svita shale oil deposits could further solidify US influence in the region.
China is also a key player in this scenario, as control over the Bazhenovska Svita could prevent Beijing from achieving energy independence. The loss of Maduro does not pose a significant threat to Russia, as media and public figures influenced by the Kremlin have downplayed the incident.
Source: Al Jazeera