Russian President Putin holds talks with Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua

Moscow/ Havana/ Washington: Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at deploying military in the countries near the United States. In the last few days, President Putin has held talks with the leaders of Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua, Russia reported. A few days ago, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Ryabkov, warned that Russia might deploy its troops in the Latin American countries of Cuba and Venezuela. Following the news, it has surfaced that President Putin has held these discussions recently. Besides, in the Russian State Duma, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had informed about the possible military deployment in Latin America. In recent telephone conversations, President Putin and his counterparts from the three friendly countries of Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua have agreed to consider ways further to deepen their strategic partnership in each and every field’ said Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Earlier in 2018 and 2019, Russia reportedly deployed its troops in Venezuela. Moreover, news surfaced that Russia was permitted to use the airport near the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, as a Russian airbase. The photographs of Russian bombers and fighter jets landing at the base were also published. Besides, Russia and Venezuela had also signed an agreement over this army deployment.

Furthermore, Cuba and Russia also signed important agreements in 2019, by which Russia may activate its military base. In the 1960s, Russia had initiated developments to deploy nuclear weapons in Cuba. It is being said that Russia took this step to prevent US attacks in Cuba. However, Russia withdrew after the United States indicated a ‘Naval Blockade’ and assured not to attack Cuba. This event is known as the ‘Cuban Missile Crisis’. Thus, the analysts claim that Russia’s indication to deploy troops in Cuba may repeat the ‘Cuban Missile Crisis’.

Meanwhile, the relations between Nicaragua and United States have been strained for many years. Hence, Nicaragua has started developing proximity with Russia and China. A few days ago, a report had surfaced that China has been spreading its influence across Latin America. Thus, Russia deploying its troops in Nicaragua could add to the concerns of the United States.