Moscow signaled fresh concern after Washington moved to restrict Russia and China from Venezuelan oil deals. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov said Russia would use existing channels to seek “clarity” from the US, pointing to long-term investments and strategic interests in Venezuela. His remarks hint at quiet diplomacy unfolding behind the scenes as global energy routes grow more politicized. With sanctions, media leaks and mixed signals shaping the narrative, the real negotiations may be happening out of sight. Is this the start of a new energy standoff or a back-channel reset?