As tensions between Venezuela and the United States escalate, Venezuela has reportedly requested military assistance from Russia, China and Iran to bolster its defenses. The Washington Post cited US government documents indicating that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has requested radar systems and assistance in repairing Su-30MK2 fighter jets. He also reportedly asked Iran for drones and radar-jamming equipment capable of operating over 1,000 kilometers. Meanwhile, Russia has ratified a strategic partnership treaty with Venezuela, underscoring its support for Caracas in defending its national sovereignty. The developments come amid heightened US military activity in the western Caribbean, including naval operations and strikes against maritime vessels allegedly linked to drug cartels.
The situation has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation. US President Donald Trump has accused Maduro of operating “macroterrorist” cartels that smuggle drugs into the United States and has offered a bounty for his arrest. Washington has deployed a naval armada in the western Caribbean and, since September, has carried out strikes in international waters against more than a dozen alleged cartel vessels. Maduro has denied the allegations and accused Trump of “fabricating a new war.” The ongoing standoff has led to increased diplomatic engagement between Venezuela and its key allies, with China and Iran also expressing support for Caracas in its defense against perceived threats.
President Maduro has reportedly sent a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping requesting radar detectors and directly citing the “escalation” with the US. Caracas also reportedly urged Iran to provide radar-jamming equipment and drones capable of flying up to 1,000 kilometers. The Post cited documents indicating that Venezuelan Transport Minister Ramon Celestino Velazquez was set to deliver a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin during his trip to Moscow last month, requesting unspecified missiles and assistance in repairing Su-30MK2 fighter jets and radar systems previously purchased by Venezuela. The report added that it was unclear how Russia, China, or Iran had responded to the requests.
Russia has ratified the strategic partnership treaty with Venezuela that was signed in May. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said this week that Moscow “supports Venezuela’s defense of its national sovereignty” and will help it “overcome any threats, regardless of where they come from.” These developments have highlighted the deepening strategic ties between Venezuela and its allies, as well as the broader geopolitical tensions involving the United States. The situation remains closely watched by international observers, who are monitoring the potential for further military confrontation and the impact on regional stability.