Maduro asks Putin for military assistance: details of requests to Russia and China

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has turned to Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Iran, requesting military assistance amid increasing pressure from the Trump administration, reports The Washington Post citing internal U.S. government documents.

To Russia: In an October letter to Putin, Maduro specifically asked for the restoration of Russian Su-20MK2 fighter jets, to carry out major repairs of engines and radars, to supply missiles, and to organize funding for three years through 'Rostec'.

To China: Maduro asked Xi Jinping for 'expanded military cooperation' and the acceleration of the production of radar detection systems.

To Iran: Minister Velasquez coordinated the supply of military equipment and drones needed for Venezuela.

On Sunday, a Russian Il-76 arrived in Caracas, and Moscow ratified a strategic agreement with Venezuela. However, Moscow's interest in supporting Maduro may decline due to the war in Ukraine. According to former U.S. ambassador James Story, the relocation of American military assets to the Caribbean is already a victory for Putin, as it distracts attention from Ukraine.

The Venezuelan president has turned to Russia, China, and Iran for military assistance due to pressure from the Trump administration. Moscow has already ratified the strategic agreement with Venezuela, but such assistance may decrease due to the situation in Ukraine. The relocation of American troops to the Caribbean is seen as a victory for Putin, as it diverts attention from the conflict in Eastern Europe.