The Russian Foreign Ministry said that the United States is reviving piratery and banditry by blocking Venezuela. It hoped President Donald Trump’s pragmatic approach would prevent a catastrophe.

Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Foreign Ministry, said that "we are today witnessing complete lawlessness" in 'the Caribbean Sea. Long-forgotten thefts of other people's property - namely, piracy and banditry - are being resurrected.

Zakharova stated that "we consistently advocate for de-escalation." "We hope the pragmatism, and rationality, of US President Trump allows solutions to be found which are mutually agreeable for the parties within the framework of international law norms."

She said: "We 'confirm our support of the efforts of Nicolas Maduro to protect sovereignty and national interest, and maintain a stable and secure development in his country," (Reporting and writing by Dmitry Antonov, Editing by Guy Faulconbridge).

(source: Reuters)