Moscow makes 'fatal mistake' warning to US: 7 ways Russia could help Venezuela military
Over the years, Russia has been bolstering Venezuela’s military with advanced missiles, instructors, and long-term oil deals. Moscow has warned the US to avoid the ‘fatal mistake’ of escalating tensions with its ally. How could Russia help Venezuela? A look into their defence and trade ties
Advanced S-300VM Missile Defence
Russia has delivered S-300VM battalions to help Venezuela create an "anti-access area denial" shield. These systems can track multiple targets and engage them at distances of up to 250 kilometres.
Thousands of Igla-S Manpads
Venezuela has reportedly deployed 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles to contest US airpower. These shoulder-fired weapons are designed to hit low-flying helicopters and drones used in maritime operations.
Middle-Layer Buk-M2E Systems
The Buk-M2E system provides a vital medium-range layer, hitting targets 45 kilometres away and 25 kilometres high. These units strengthen Caracas' deterrence and significantly raise the cost of potential US air strikes.
Hypersonic Oreshnik Missile Threat
Moscow has confirmed it is "prepared" to supply the nuke-capable Oreshnik hypersonic missile system to Venezuela. This missile is described by the Kremlin as virtually impossible to intercept and can carry conventional warheads.
Russian Military Instructors
Over 120 Russian personnel are currently training Venezuelan special units and UAV operators. These instructors, including combat-hardened leaders, are significantly enhancing the combat capabilities of the Venezuelan army.
PMC and Wagner Presence
Russian private military companies, including Wagner mercenaries, have been spotted operating advanced Pantsir-S1 systems in Venezuela. They offer security-sector advisory and training to regime loyalists for irregular warfare scenarios.
15-Year Strategic Oil Deal
Venezuela and Russia recently extended their joint oil ventures until the year 2041. This $616 million deal cements Russian control over energy assets and aims to make US policy changes nearly irrelevant.
Venezuela and Russia are long-term allies
It is in this context that the recent ‘fatal mistake warning’ from Russia should be seen. The Russian foreign ministry said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 18): "We note continuous and deliberate attempts to escalate tensions with our ally Venezuela. Unilateral decisions creating a threat to international shipping are particularly alarming,"
"Hopefully, the Trump administration, known for pursuing a rational and practical policy course, will stop short of making a fatal mistake and refrain from escalating things down a path that may cause unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere," said the ministry, as per Russia's Tass news agency
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