Venezuela Turns to Russia, China Amid Rising US Pressure
As the United States intensifies its military presence in the Caribbean Sea, Venezuela, under President Nicolás Maduro, is actively seeking military assistance from Russia, China, and Iran. This move is aimed at bolstering the country’s declining military capabilities and countering the perceived aggression from the United States, according to an article published by Annahar.
Seeking Military Aid
The requests for assistance include defense radars, aircraft repair, and potentially missiles. These requests were detailed in internal US government documents obtained by The Washington Post. Maduro’s outreach extends to both Moscow and Beijing, with specific requests conveyed through official channels.
A letter addressed to Russian President Vladimir Putin was reportedly delivered during a visit by a senior aide to Moscow this month. Simultaneously, Maduro wrote to Chinese President Xi Jinping, seeking expanded military cooperation to counter the escalating tensions with the US. In this letter, Maduro urged China to expedite the production of radar detection systems to enhance Venezuela’s defense capabilities.
Cooperation with Iran
The documents also indicate coordination with Iran. According to the documents, Ramón Celestino Velásquez, the Minister of Transportation, recently coordinated a shipment of military equipment and drones from Iran. During planning for a visit to Iran, Velásquez informed an Iranian official that Venezuela needed negative detection equipment, GPS jammers, and drones with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers.
Perceived US Aggression
The core of Maduro’s concern, as highlighted in the documents, is the perceived aggression from the United States in the Caribbean. He characterized any US military action against Venezuela as an act also against China, due to their shared ideological stances. The increased US military presence in the Caribbean poses a significant challenge for Maduro, who has led Venezuela since 2013.
The report notes that more than ten US raids targeting alleged drug traffickers, primarily operating from Venezuelan coasts, have resulted in at least 61 fatalities since September. Maduro has denied any involvement in drug trafficking, and the US administration has not provided evidence to support their claims.
Conclusion
Venezuela’s strategic moves highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics and the increasing pressure it faces. By seeking support from Russia, China, and Iran, Maduro aims to fortify his nation’s defenses and navigate the challenges posed by the US presence in the region.
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