Russia has formally requested the United States to cease its pursuit of the oil tanker Bella 1, as tensions continue to rise between the two nations over the ongoing blockade of Venezuela-bound tankers and escalating US actions in the Caribbean.
The request was made by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in a statement released on Tuesday. In the statement, Ryabkov expressed concern over the US Navy’s recent actions in the Caribbean, which have included the interception and seizure of several oil tankers carrying fuel to Venezuela.
According to Ryabkov, the US actions are a violation of international law and are causing unnecessary tension in the region. He also stated that Russia is closely monitoring the situation and will take all necessary measures to protect its interests and the interests of its allies.
The US has been enforcing a blockade on Venezuela since April, in an attempt to oust President Nicolas Maduro and support opposition leader Juan Guaido. The blockade has resulted in severe fuel shortages in the country, leading to a desperate need for oil imports.
The Bella 1, a Liberian-flagged tanker, was one of the vessels targeted by the US Navy. The tanker was carrying 1.1 million barrels of gasoline and was intercepted by US warships in the Caribbean Sea on May 2. The US claimed that the tanker was carrying fuel to Venezuela in violation of US sanctions.
However, Russia has denied these claims and stated that the tanker was not heading to Venezuela, but rather to a different destination in the Caribbean. The Russian Foreign Ministry has also accused the US of using the blockade as a pretext to seize Venezuelan oil and destabilize the country.
The US has also imposed sanctions on two Russian companies, Rosneft Trading and TNK Trading, for their involvement in the oil trade with Venezuela. In response, Russia has condemned the sanctions and stated that they are illegal and unacceptable.
The tensions between Russia and the US have been escalating in recent months, with both nations accusing each other of aggressive actions. The US has accused Russia of sending military equipment and personnel to support Maduro’s regime, while Russia has accused the US of interfering in Venezuela’s internal affairs.
The request to stop chasing the Bella 1 is just the latest development in this ongoing conflict between the two nations. Russia has made it clear that it will not stand by and watch as its interests and those of its allies are threatened by the US.
In his statement, Ryabkov also called on the US to engage in constructive dialogue and find a peaceful solution to the crisis in Venezuela. He emphasized the need for respect for international law and the sovereignty of nations, and urged the US to stop its aggressive actions in the region.
The request from Russia has been met with mixed reactions from the international community. Some have praised Russia for standing up against the US and defending its interests, while others have criticized the move as a provocation that could further escalate tensions between the two nations.
As the situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate, it is crucial for all parties involved to find a peaceful resolution. The US must respect the sovereignty of other nations and refrain from using its military might to impose its will. Russia, on the other hand, must also act responsibly and avoid any actions that could further escalate the conflict.
In the end, it is the people of Venezuela who are suffering the most from this ongoing crisis. It is time for the international community to come together and find a solution that will bring stability and prosperity to the country. The request from Russia to stop chasing the Bella 1 is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that the US will heed this call and work towards a peaceful resolution.
