Venezuelan President Maduro Seeks Russian, Chinese, Iranian Military Aid Amid US Caribbean Buildup

Amid a significant U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has urgently sought military support from Russia, China, and Iran to bolster Venezuela's defense capabilities. According to internal U.S. government documents obtained by The Washington Post, Maduro requested Russia's assistance in restoring Sukhoi Su-30MK2 fighter jets, overhauling engines and radar systems, and acquiring missile units, emphasizing these assets as critical deterrents against potential U.S. aggression. Maduro also sought a medium-term financing plan through Russia’s state defense conglomerate, Rostec, while simultaneously appealing to China for expanded military cooperation and expedited production of radar detection systems. Additionally, Venezuela has requested military equipment, including drones and GPS scramblers, from Iran as part of its efforts to counter perceived U.S. threats. While Venezuela maintains close ties with Russia and has mobilized troops defensively, analysts suggest Russia's capacity to assist may be limited due to its ongoing military commitments in Ukraine. These developments reflect heightened tensions in the region, with Venezuela framing U.S. military actions as provocations aimed at destabilizing the country and threatening its sovereignty.