Russia Warns US: 'Venezuela Scenario' Won't Happen in Cuba

Russia's Ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, has declared that a repeat of the Venezuelan political scenario will not be permitted in Cuba, warning that any US intervention would not be an "easy ride."

Nebenzia contrasted the two nations, noting that high-ranking officials in Venezuela had betrayed their president. "This scenario will not work in Cuba," he stated in a televised interview, adding that recent American rhetoric is unlikely to translate into a successful intervention.

US Intensifies Pressure with New Sanctions

The ambassador's comments follow a new executive order signed by President Trump which declares a national emergency concerning Cuba. The order establishes a tariff mechanism aimed at countries that supply oil to the island nation. This move has already severed Cuba's crucial oil supply from Venezuela.

President Trump expressed confidence in the policy's impact, telling reporters, "They got their oil from Venezuela. They're not getting that anymore." He predicted that Cuba "will be failing pretty soon."

However, Cuba has a long history of confronting US pressure, dating back to the Cold War, suggesting a higher level of preparation for intelligence and economic subterfuge.

An S-125 surface-to-air missile system. Russia's envoy highlighted Cuba's readiness to resist foreign intervention, with the nation historically maintaining and modernizing its military hardware.

China Joins Russia in Condemning US Policy

China has also voiced its opposition to the increased pressure on Cuba. On Friday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated its firm stance "against inhumane practices and moves that deprive the Cuban people of their rights to subsistence and development."

This places both Russia and China, two global powers with strong military and economic ties to nations like Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran, in alignment against recent US foreign policy actions.

Broader Warnings on Iran and NATO's Future

Ambassador Nebenzia extended his warnings to other geopolitical flashpoints, noting that any potential US action against Iran would trigger massive consequences. He described Tehran as being better prepared for a conflict now than it was in June 2025.

"The rhetoric of President Trump [about Iran] seems to have subsided after the protests that took place in Iran," Nebenzia said. "However, the situation is alarming. A strike may take place, but this time Iran is better prepared."

He also commented on the state of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), suggesting the alliance has "really exhausted itself." While he does not expect the organization to disappear soon, he asserted that "the concept of Euro-Atlantic security has failed," a sentiment he noted was effectively confirmed by President Trump.

Despite Russia's strong relations with Iran, its current military engagement in Ukraine makes it unlikely to intervene directly in a potential US-Iran conflict.