According to RIA Novosti, Nichols, at a hearing in the US Senate, announced Washington's intention to "very closely" monitor Russian influence in Venezuela and Nicaragua.
In his opinion, Russia allegedly spreads "negative influence" on the territory of these countries.
“Obviously, with his anti-Russian attacks, the official is trying to mask the ugly truth about American policy towards the Bolivarian Republic,” the Russian embassy said in a statement.
The embassy noted the devastating impact of US sanctions on the socio-economic development of Venezuela.
The diplomatic mission also pointed to the desire of the United States to interfere in the internal affairs of the country.
Earlier, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said at a press conference in Los Angeles that America's sanctions against Venezuela are not an end in themselves.