Moscow Steps Back as Venezuela Deepens Ties With Washington

Russia is not participating in the relief effort following the earthquake in Venezuela. For the first time, it has demonstrated an extremely pragmatic approach toward a former ally. The United States Prevented Caracas From Accepting Russian Assistance Russia has so far not sent even rescue teams or humanitarian cargo to Venezuela following the catastrophic earthquake. The Kremlin has limited itself to offering condolences, while the Foreign Ministry has said it will "explore the possibilities of providing humanitarian assistance to Venezuelan friends." Meanwhile, the United States is playing the leading role in the rescue operation. Washington has allocated $320 million and deployed more than 900 military personnel to Venezuela, along with MQ-9 Reaper drones to search for survivors and assess the destruction. More than 24 countries, including Cuba, Iran, China, the Netherlands, France, Spain, and Germany, have also dispatched rescue teams, medical personnel, and equipment.