Russia attempts to deepen foothold in Latin America with Maduro alliance

By AFP and Global Watch | 2025-05-12

Russia, in a calculated move to solidify its foothold in Latin America, continues to intensify its support for Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro, further embedding itself in the region's geopolitical landscape.

This deepening alliance comes as Maduro faces increasing international condemnation and domestic unrest following a disputed election.

The signing of a comprehensive 10-year partnership agreement between Maduro and Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 7 underscored Moscow's commitment to bolstering the embattled Venezuelan leader.

The pact encompasses "countering terrorism, extremism and combating the falsification of history" as well as "increasing cooperation" in energy, transport and other areas, AFP cited Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov as saying.

Maduro's visit to Moscow, coinciding with Russia's Victory Day celebrations, follows a series of high-level engagements between Venezuelan and Russian officials.

The agreement, described by the Kremlin as "weighty" and meaningful, is indicative of Russia's strategic intent to counter Western influence by fostering alliances with like-minded regimes.

Challenging Western 'hegemony'

Last November, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko visited Caracas, where discussions centered on intelligence sharing, military cooperation and energy projects. Chernyshenko assured Venezuelan officials of Russia's readiness to supply advanced weaponry and military equipment, further entrenching Moscow's influence in the country's defense apparatus.

At the same time, Iran has been strengthening its ties with Venezuela. Iranian Deputy Defense Minister Aalami Morteza's visit to Táchira state last November aimed at securing beef exports highlights Tehran's interest in deepening economic relations. Plans to export approximately 11,000 head of cattle monthly to Iran have been discussed, although specific details remain undisclosed.

These alliances are crucial for Maduro, who has been increasingly isolated in the Western hemisphere.

The 2024 Venezuelan presidential election, widely criticized for irregularities, saw opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia present evidence of victory, only to have it dismissed by Maduro-controlled electoral authorities. Even traditional allies, such as Colombian President Gustavo Petro, have called for credible election results, leaving Maduro reliant on support from authoritarian regimes.

Such regimes, like Russia, China and Iran, have consistently offered Maduro political legitimacy and economic support.

This backing was overtly showcased during a Caracas military parade last July, when Maduro praised his alliances with "our sister Russia, our sister China, our sister Iran" for providing drone and anti-drone combat technology.