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

UPDATE: In a bold declaration, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro asserted on Wednesday that his country possesses 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles, positioned in “key air defense positions.” This announcement comes in the wake of escalating tensions as U.S. President Donald Trump contemplates military action in Venezuela amid a counter-drug trafficking campaign.

Maduro’s claims were made during a military event broadcast by Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), where he emphasized the capabilities of the Igla-S missiles. “Any military force in the world knows the power of the Igla-S and Venezuela has no less than 5,000,” he stated, highlighting their potential to target small aerial threats, including cruise missiles and drones.

This revelation comes as the U.S. has deployed 4,500 Marines and sailors to the Caribbean to enhance operations against drug cartels and showcase military strength. The U.S. has already conducted several strikes against vessels suspected of trafficking narcotics, drawing scrutiny from lawmakers regarding the legality of these operations.

During a press conference last week, Trump confirmed that he had authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, indicating a possible expansion of U.S. military efforts. “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control,” he informed reporters.

As the U.S. ramps up pressure on Maduro, the Venezuelan leader is not backing down. He has mobilized troops and claims to have over 8 million militia members ready to defend the nation, although experts have raised doubts about the accuracy of these figures and the training of these forces.

According to Rosoboronexport, the Russian state firm responsible for exporting the Igla-S systems, these missiles can reach targets up to 6,000 meters away and at altitudes of up to 3,500 meters. While CNN has been unable to independently verify Maduro’s missile count, the Igla-S is acknowledged as part of Venezuela’s military arsenal.

Sources indicate that the Trump administration has been preparing for potential military action in Venezuela for months, framing Maduro’s regime as a threat linked to drug trafficking and terrorism. However, the current strategy focuses on pressuring Maduro to resign without direct military intervention. This strategy aims to create a credible threat of military action to encourage voluntary leadership change.

Maduro continues to rally support, asserting that the Venezuelan populace is “clear, united, and aware” of external threats. “They have the means to once again defeat this open conspiracy against the peace and stability of Venezuela,” he declared in a recent televised address.

The situation remains fluid as both nations prepare for potential escalations. The international community is closely monitoring developments, especially regarding how U.S. military actions could impact the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Venezuela.

As tensions rise, what happens next could reshape the political landscape in Venezuela and the broader region. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.