Maduro Claims Venezuela Has 5,000 Russian Missiles Amid US Threats

UPDATE: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has just announced that his country possesses 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles, claiming they are strategically positioned across key air defense sites. This bold statement comes amid escalating tensions as US President Donald Trump weighs potential military action against Venezuela, intensifying fears of conflict in the region.

During a televised military event on Wednesday, Maduro proclaimed, “Any military force in the world knows the power of the Igla-S and Venezuela has no less than 5,000 of them.” This assertion underscores the growing military posturing following the recent deployment of 4,500 US Marines and sailors to the Caribbean, aimed at combating drug trafficking and showcasing US military strength.

The Igla-S missiles, short-range systems capable of targeting low-flying aircraft, are designed to shoot down small aerial threats, including cruise missiles and drones. Maduro emphasized their mobility, stating they can be carried by a single soldier and have been deployed throughout the nation, even in remote areas.

Trump’s administration has ramped up its rhetoric against Maduro, linking him to drug trafficking organizations and explicitly suggesting an expansion of military operations on land. “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control,” Trump stated, signaling a potential shift in strategy that could lead to direct intervention.

Lawmakers in the US have raised concerns about the legality of military actions against alleged “narco boats” in the region, complicating the administration’s approach. The Trump administration has been methodically laying the groundwork for possible military engagement, but as of now, there’s no clear indication that an attack is imminent.

In response to the rising pressure, Maduro has mobilized troops and claimed to have organized over 8 million militia reservists, though experts question the validity and training of these forces. He asserted that the Venezuelan people are united and prepared to counter what he describes as an “open conspiracy” against their nation.

“They have the means to once again defeat this open conspiracy against the peace and stability of Venezuela,” Maduro declared in a recent address.

The involvement of the CIA in covert operations against Venezuela has been confirmed, highlighting the seriousness of US intentions. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) has noted that while the number of Igla-S missiles remains unverifiable, they are indeed a part of Venezuela’s military capabilities.

With the situation evolving rapidly, the international community is on high alert. Observers are closely watching for further developments as both nations prepare for what could become a significant military confrontation. The implications for regional stability are profound, and the stakes have never been higher.

As tensions escalate, the world awaits the next move from both the US and Venezuela, with potential ramifications that could affect millions.