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

UPDATE: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has declared that the country possesses 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles, intensifying tensions with the United States as military action looms. This announcement comes amid escalating threats from President Donald Trump, who is considering military measures as part of a broader counter-drug trafficking strategy.

During a live broadcast on Venezolana de Televisión (VTV), Maduro stated, “Any military force in the world knows the power of the Igla-S. Venezuela has no less than 5,000 of them,” emphasizing their strategic placement in key air defense positions across the nation.

The Igla-S missiles are designed for short-range, low-altitude defense, capable of targeting aerial threats such as drones and helicopters. Maduro claimed these weapons have been deployed throughout Venezuela, stating they are light enough for individual soldiers to carry.

In a show of military readiness, the U.S. has dispatched 4,500 Marines and sailors to the Caribbean, ramping up operations against drug cartels and demonstrating military strength in the region. The U.S. has also conducted several strikes on vessels suspected of trafficking narcotics, leading to bipartisan questions about the legality of these operations.

Earlier this week, Trump revealed that he has authorized the CIA to undertake covert actions in Venezuela. He hinted at expanding military efforts on land, stating, “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control.” This reflects an intensifying campaign aimed at pressuring Maduro to resign, as the administration associates him with drug trafficking organizations designated as terror groups.

Despite the threats, Maduro is mobilizing support, claiming to have over 8 million reservists in his volunteer militias. While experts question the accuracy and training of these forces, Maduro insists the Venezuelan people are united against foreign aggression. “They have the means to once again defeat this open conspiracy against the peace and stability of Venezuela,” he declared.

The Russian Igla-S missiles, manufactured by Rosoboronexport, have a range of up to 6,000 meters and can reach targets at altitudes of up to 3,500 meters. While the exact number of missiles remains unverified by independent sources, they are acknowledged as part of Venezuela’s military capabilities according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

As tensions rise, both the Venezuelan government and U.S. officials are on high alert. Maduro’s response to U.S. military presence is to bolster defenses and rally nationalistic sentiments among his supporters. Developing: The situation in Venezuela is rapidly evolving, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.

Officials are urging close monitoring of the situation as both nations prepare for possible confrontation. The stakes are high as military posturing continues, with the world watching closely.