Maduro Claims Venezuela Has 5,000 Russian Missiles Amid U.S. Threats

UPDATE: Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro has just announced that the country possesses 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles strategically positioned across its territory. This bold claim comes as tensions escalate with the United States, where President Donald Trump is reportedly considering military action in Venezuela as part of a broader counter-drug initiative.

During a televised event with military personnel, Maduro asserted that the Igla-S missiles, capable of targeting small aircraft, including cruise missiles and drones, are deployed “even in the last mountain, the last town, and the last city of the territory.” He emphasized their portability, stating they can be carried by a single soldier, highlighting their potential operational readiness.

This revelation coincides with the U.S. military’s deployment of 4,500 Marines and sailors to the Caribbean, aimed at combating drug trafficking and demonstrating military might. The U.S. has intensified operations, reportedly executing several lethal strikes on boats linked to drug trafficking. Lawmakers are scrutinizing these actions, questioning their legality amid concerns over escalating military involvement.

In a recent statement, Trump indicated that he has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, suggesting a potential expansion of military efforts on land. “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control,” Trump told reporters, confirming a shift in strategy.

Maduro’s government is responding to the increasing pressure by repositioning troops and mobilizing millions of militia members. He maintains that the Venezuelan populace is united and prepared to resist external threats, stating, “The people of Venezuela are clear, united, and aware.” He claims to have over 8 million reservists in volunteer militias, although this figure has faced skepticism from experts regarding both its accuracy and the training quality of these troops.

The Igla-S missiles boast a range of up to 6,000 meters and can engage targets at altitudes of up to 3,500 meters, according to information from Rosoboronexport, the Russian state arms exporter. While CNN has not independently verified Maduro’s missile count, historical data indicates that these systems are indeed part of Venezuela’s military capabilities.

As this situation develops, the international community is closely monitoring the implications of U.S. military strategies and Maduro’s defiant posture. Officials from both the U.S. Department of Defense and Venezuela’s Ministry of Defense have been contacted for comments, reflecting the urgency and complexity of this evolving crisis.

Stay tuned for more updates on this critical situation as it unfolds. The implications for regional stability and international relations are profound, making it imperative to follow developments closely.