Russia calls on the US to stop actions that divide Venezuela's armed forces

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Photo: Getty

Speaking at a press conference, Ms. Zakharova stated: "We call for stopping actions that divide the Venezuelan Armed Forces. This state institution needs to protect the constitutional order, and not participate in the internal political process. Although the threat of direct intervention in Venezuela has decreased, the risk of illegal actions against the Venezuelan Government, including low-level military action, is still present."

The Russian Foreign Ministry representative also welcomed the goodwill of the opposition and the Venezuelan government to participate in dialogue, and affirmed that Moscow is ready to support.

Also at the press conference, Ms. Zakharova said that Moscow is concerned about the situation in Idlib province, northwestern Syria, where terrorists continue to plot aggressive actions through the use of chemical weapons.

According to her, the Russian and Turkish militaries continue joint efforts to prevent the escalation of the situation.

Referring to the issue of Cuba, Ms. Zakharova emphasized that Russia strongly criticized the US's imposition of additional sanctions against this Caribbean island nation.

Earlier this month, the United States announced a series of new restrictions on Cuba. As of June 5, the US Treasury Department banned cruise tourism to Cuba and also banned US citizens from making educational visits there. The move is part of Washington’s efforts to hold Cuba accountable for its alleged interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs.