Maduro appealed to Russia, China, and Iran for military assistance
The President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, in response to increased US military activity in the Caribbean region, approached Russia, China, and Iran for strengthening the country’s military capabilities.
According to The Washington Post, citing internal US government documents, Maduro penned a letter to the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. In the document, the Venezuelan leader requested assistance in refurbishing Su-20MK2 aircraft, engines, and radars, and also noted a need for possibly Russian missiles. Additionally, he expressed a desire to obtain “logistical support” and to develop a three-year financing plan through the Russian defense company “Rostec.”
Simultaneously, Maduro reached out to China’s leader Xi Jinping, asking to expedite the production of radar detection systems. In the letter, the President of Venezuela emphasized the seriousness of aggression from the United States, which, according to him, is also directed against China due to shared ideology. According to official data, Venezuela is also cooperating with Iran, adjusting the supply of military equipment and drones.
There is currently no information on the response from Russia, China, and Iran to these requests. Strategic cooperation of Venezuela with these countries could heighten tensions in the region, already marked by US actions which have directed supersonic bombers and strike groups to the Caribbean basin.
| Partner Country | President Maduro’s Request | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | Refurbishing aircraft, engines, radars | Enhancement of Venezuela’s military capabilities |
| China | Acceleration of radar production | Strengthening strategic partnership |
| Iran | Supply of drones and equipment | Strengthening military ties |




