"Putin Is Very Nervous."
- 15.01.2026, 10:43
Events in Venezuela could undermine the Russian Federation's ability to wage war.
There have been close economic ties between Russia and Venezuela. The arrest of Nicolas Maduro could negatively affect this. In particular, it refers to the Russians' ability to wage war in Ukraine.
National security and foreign policy analyst Mark Toth told "Channel 24" that Venezuela was important to Rosneft because there was an opportunity to make business deals to replenish the Russian economy. Now the West has a chance to pressure the Kremlin more effectively.
How does the situation in Venezuela affect Russia?"
Mark Toth emphasized that China, Cuba and Iran are allies of Venezuela, but they also support Russia and help Vladimir Putin continue the war in Ukraine.
The fact that the US arrested the Venezuelan leader hurts the interests of these countries because it destroys the long-established oil trade.
"Therefore, there may be positive aspects (for the civilized world, - Channel 24). However, the question arises how to influence this, because there are no US troops in Venezuela. The blockade and sanctions continue, but if there is a need to change everything once and for all, there should be a plan to make Venezuela no longer under the control of China and Russia," the analyst said.
However, the Kremlin's oil revenues have fallen by 25%. Difficulties in cooperation with Venezuela could also hit Russia's financial capacity.
According to the analyst, 2 wars will continue in 2026: on the battlefield and in the economy. Due to financial difficulties, Russia is barely keeping afloat, and the loss of Venezuela as an important partner makes Putin's position even more difficult.
In addition, the Kremlin dictator has failed not for the first time, because in 2025 he lost influence in Syria, where the regime of Bashar al-Assad was overthrown.
The events in Iran are also making Putin nervous, as mass protests against the government there have long continued.
"This is a big plus for Ukraine on the battlefield, because Putin has something to worry about. His global war against the West is beginning to crumble," Mark Toth added.
If the Kremlin finally loses influence over Venezuela, it could have a positive effect on Ukraine, as Russia will have one less ally.