Maduro Claims Venezuela Has 5,000 Russian Missiles as Tensions Rise

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro stated on March 13, 2024, that the country possesses 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles, strategically positioned for defense. This announcement comes as tensions escalate due to a significant military deployment by the United States in the Caribbean, with President Donald Trump considering military action against Venezuela as part of a broader initiative to combat drug trafficking and undermine Maduro’s administration.

During a televised event with military personnel, Maduro emphasized the capabilities of the Igla-S missiles, which are short-range, low-altitude systems comparable to the American Stinger missiles. He claimed these weapons could effectively target small aerial threats, including drones and helicopters. “Any military force in the world knows the power of the Igla-S, and Venezuela has no less than 5,000,” he asserted, highlighting their deployment “even in the last mountain, the last town, and the last city of the territory.”

The U.S. has recently sent 4,500 Marines and sailors to the Caribbean to bolster operations against drug cartels and display military strength. This deployment follows several airstrikes on vessels suspected of trafficking narcotics along the Caribbean coast. Lawmakers from both major parties in the U.S. have raised questions regarding the legality of these military actions.

On the same day as Maduro’s claims, Trump indicated that he had authorized the CIA to engage in covert operations in Venezuela, suggesting an expansion of military efforts from naval to land operations. “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control,” he told reporters. This strategy appears part of an intensified campaign to pressure Maduro to resign.

The Trump administration has been building a case against Maduro for months, linking him to drug trafficking networks that officials classify as terrorist organizations posing a threat to U.S. national security. Despite the looming threat of military action, there is no confirmed plan to directly target Maduro at this time. Sources indicate that the intention is to compel him to step down voluntarily, leveraging the potential for military intervention as leverage.

In response to the escalating U.S. military presence, Maduro has mobilized troops and militia members across the country, asserting that Venezuelans are united and prepared to defend their sovereignty. “The people of Venezuela are clear, united, and aware,” he stated in a recent speech. He claims that his volunteer militias have grown to include over 8 million reservists, a figure that experts have questioned regarding its accuracy and the training of the personnel involved.

According to Russian state defense exporter Rosoboronexport, the Igla-S missile has a range of up to 6,000 meters and can reach targets at altitudes of up to 3,500 meters. While CNN has been unable to independently verify the total number of missiles mentioned by Maduro, the Igla-S systems are known to be a part of Venezuela’s military capabilities, as outlined in reports by the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino has publicly showcased the launchers in Caracas, further emphasizing the country’s military readiness. As tensions continue to rise, both nations remain on high alert, with the potential for conflict lingering in the background.

The situation in Venezuela highlights the complexities of international relations, with both military posturing and diplomatic negotiations playing critical roles. As developments unfold, the world watches closely, aware of the potential implications for regional stability and global security.