CARACUS: Russia on Monday expressed “full support” for Venezuela as the South American country confronts a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers by US forces deployed in the Caribbean. The pledge from Moscow, itself embroiled in the war in Ukraine, came on the eve of a UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting Tuesday to discuss the mounting crisis between Caracas and Washington. In a phone call, the foreign ministers of the allied nations blasted the US actions, which have included strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats and more recently the seizure of two oil tankers.

The Russian side "reaffirmed its extensive support and solidarity with the people and the government of Venezuela"

US forces have launched strikes on boats it says, without providing evidence, were trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September. More than 100…