Maduro Appeals to Putin for Missiles as US Warships Circle Caribbean

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has appealed to Moscow for military assistance as US forces increase their presence in the Caribbean, according to documents reviewed by The Washington Post on October 31.

In a letter drafted for Russian leader Vladimir Putin, Maduro reportedly requested the delivery of missiles, radar systems, and upgrades for Venezuela’s Russian-made Sukhoi fighter jets. He also asked for financing through the Russian defense conglomerate Rostec to overhaul engines and restore several air-defense systems.

The documents indicate that Maduro’s government is simultaneously seeking support from China and Iran, including drones, GPS jammers, and passive detection equipment, to bolster its defenses against what it calls US “aggression,” according to The Washington Post.

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The request comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas, with the US Navy deploying ships and aircraft to the region under the pretext of countering drug trafficking. On Sunday, a Russian Il-76 transport aircraft—previously sanctioned by the US—landed in Caracas, shortly after Moscow ratified a new strategic cooperation treaty with Venezuela.

Analysts say that while Russia remains one of Maduro’s few remaining allies, its capacity to provide large-scale support is limited by its invasion of Ukraine and economic strain from Western sanctions, The Washington Post wrote.

Still, Moscow retains significant energy interests in Venezuela, including joint ventures that account for over 10 percent of the country’s crude oil output.

Previously, it was reported that Vladimir Putin has signed a law ratifying the strategic partnership and cooperation treaty with Venezuela, according to Russian state media outlet Interfax, citing the official portal of legal information.

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