It has become known that Nicolas Maduro's government has officially requested military assistance from Russia, China, and Iran in order to strengthen its defense capabilities. These diplomatic measures are being taken following the strengthening of US military presence in the Caribbean region.
The Washington Post reported this, citing internal US government documents. Maduro’s letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin is planned to be delivered by an official representative, Transport Minister Ramon Celestino Velasquez, during his visit to Moscow.
In this letter, the Venezuelan leader asked for assistance from Russia in repairing and modernizing previously purchased Su-30MK2 fighter jets. According to Maduro, these particular fighter aircraft are “the most important deterrent in the face of war risk.”
The issues of repairing engines and radars, as well as the purchase of 14 potential missile kits, were also raised. In another address sent to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Maduro proposed to expand military cooperation.
It highlights the need to strengthen Venezuela’s defense capabilities by accelerating the production of radar systems by Chinese companies. Talks with Iran, meanwhile, have moved into the practical stage.
It is reported that Transport Minister Velasquez has not only planned a visit to Tehran, but is also monitoring the process of delivering Iranian military equipment. In correspondence with Iranian officials, Venezuela’s needs are clearly stated: “passive detection devices,” “GPS scramblers,” and unmanned aerial vehicles capable of flying up to 1,000 kilometers.
These technologies could significantly strengthen the Venezuelan army’s reconnaissance and electronic warfare capabilities. Caracas' actions are being interpreted as a response to the US military operations in the Caribbean region initiated in late August under the pretext of fighting drug trafficking.
US President Donald Trump called these operations a“fight against narcoterrorists”, under which military-naval forces, including a carrier group, were deployed. The Maduro administration considers these actions a threat to national sovereignty and is seeking to form military-technical alliances to ensure its security.
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