Sunday, March 1, 2026

What is Putin's reaction to Venezuela, Iran and Cuba?

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As of early 2026, Vladimir Putin has strongly supported Venezuela, Iran, and Cuba against U.S. pressure, calling recent U.S. sanctions on Cuba “unacceptable”
. Amidst crises in these nations, Moscow has pledged continued, long-term alliance, considering measures to provide fuel to Cuba and condemning U.S. actions against Venezuelan leadership.
Cuba
  • Support & Rhetoric: Putin declared Russia is "always on Cuba's side" during a February 2026 meeting with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez.
  • Sanctions: He slammed the U.S. "fuel blockade" as "unacceptable" and a "special period" of pressure.
  • Assistance: Russia is discussing and actively considering supplying oil to Cuba to alleviate a critical energy shortage.

Venezuela
  • Reaction to U.S. Action: Following reports of a U.S. operation targeting President Nicolás Maduro in early 2026, Russia harshly criticized the intervention.
  • Solidarity: The Kremlin expressed solidarity with the Venezuelan people, emphasizing their right to determine their future without "destructive external interference".
  • Concerns: While backing Maduro, some Russian analysts expressed concern that U.S. control of Venezuelan oil could suppress global oil prices, impacting Russia's economy.

Iran
  • Defense & Strategic Alignment: Russia views Iran as a crucial, and increasingly vital ally in maintaining an anti-Western, multipolar world order.
  • Conflict Response: Following U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran in early 2026, Russia denounced the strikes as a "pre-planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression".
  • Regional Strategy: Russia aims to ensure the survival of the Iranian regime, viewing it as a key partner in the Middle East.

General Stance
Putin continues to leverage relationships with these nations to challenge U.S. influence, framing their struggles as a fight against foreign interference and pledging economic or political support where possible.
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