Overview
- Russian spokesman Dmitri Peskov said the Kremlin is in touch with Caracas and referenced “contractual obligations,” pointing to a May strategic partnership that includes security cooperation.
- Documents reported by U.S. outlets say Nicolás Maduro asked Russia, China and Iran for expanded military support, including missiles, air-defense systems, radar overhauls, drones, GPS jammers and logistics financing via Rostec.
- U.S. forces have destroyed 16 suspected narcotics boats in the Caribbean and Pacific since September with 64 reported deaths, while Marines conducted training in Puerto Rico and major naval assets have been deployed to the region.
- President Donald Trump said he believes Maduro’s “days are counted,” denied that the United States is going to war with Venezuela and declined to confirm any decision on strikes, saying plans remain secret.
- Media reports describe U.S. contingency options that include potential strikes on Venezuelan installations and possible Title 50 missions against cartels in Mexico, with no final decisions, as analysts doubt Russia, China or Iran would mount large-scale military intervention for Maduro.