Under the leadership of Donald Trump, America has a clear enemy. Nicolas Maduro, Prime Minister of Venezuelahas already done more than enough to provoke the ire of a man like Trump and, under the pretext of combating drug trafficking in the Caribbean, the ire of American giants. Deployed near Venezuela 11 maritime military assets (aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, missile launchers, destroyers, and even nuclear submarines) and over 26 aircraft.
Caracas is in an unprecedented situation due to the U.S. operation “Operation Southern Lanza,” the details of which have not been disclosed. in fact, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, The USS Gerald Ford, carrying 4,500 Marines, is already sailing through the Caribbean. Mr. Maduro is neither short nor lazy, but he calls for peace. Militia also become activeis made up of mostly inexperienced Venezuelan civilians. But can Venezuela stand up to American power without resorting to allies?
Venezuela’s allies during times of tension
The United States plays an active role in the geopolitical landscape, intervening in active conflicts around the world. but, China also transfers chipscontains speculations on the commerce, structure, and economic activities of Latin America and Africa. Even more so in Caracas, where they are watching. Xi Jinping as an ideological ally.
Still, the Asian giant Usually prioritizes economic and diplomatic cooperationrather than getting directly involved in the conflict. The same thing happened with Russia during the Ukraine war, and Venezuela is no exception.
Another great ally of President Maduro, now in full office, Russia. The leaders of both countries have always shown empathy for each other; They signed a strategic partnership agreement in MayArticle 14 includes improvements to “military technical cooperation” and “defense links.” Immediately after that, rifle ammunition factory Kalashnikov assault rifle under Russian license.
Finally, Caracas could count on Iran as one of its “many friends in the world.” The Persian state, which has historically supported the Chavista government and criticized U.S. sanctions, has cooperated with the Chavista government, according to some media and intelligence reports. Drone delivery and surveillance system As part of the cooperation.
Venezuela at a military disadvantage
During the Chávez era, oil boom It allowed the strengthening of Venezuela’s military, but little of its greatness remains today. In 2013, $6 billion will be allocated to defense. According to Deutsche Welle, the national budget of the Bolivarian countries will reach 22.661 billion by 2025. Of these, only 3%, i.e. Approximately 657 millionit would cost the Ministry of Defense money.
Venezuela spends about 0.5% of its GDP on national defense and defence. There are between 125,000 and 150,000 active military personnel and approximately 200,000 militia members. President Maduro therefore believes it is necessary to ensure that the 8 million people who are part of the Bolivarian National Militia (MNB) call on civilians to take up arms to “defend the homeland.”