UPDATE: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro declared on Wednesday that the nation possesses 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles strategically positioned across the country. This announcement comes amidst escalating tensions as U.S. President Donald Trump considers military action against Venezuela, intensifying concerns over a potential conflict in the region.
Maduro’s bold claim about the missiles—capable of targeting low-flying aircraft and drones—was made during a military event broadcast on Venezolana de Televisión. He stated, “Any military force in the world knows the power of the Igla-S and Venezuela has no less than 5,000” of them. This short-range missile system is comparable to American Stinger missiles and is believed to be deployed in various locations throughout the country.
The backdrop of Maduro’s statement includes the deployment of 4,500 U.S. Marines and sailors to the Caribbean, aimed at countering drug trafficking and showcasing military strength. Trump has suggested that military action may be on the table as part of a wider strategy to undermine Maduro, who has long been at odds with Washington. “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control,” Trump told reporters.
The U.S. has conducted multiple operations against alleged “narco boats” in the Caribbean, raising questions among lawmakers about the legality of these strikes. Last week, Trump also authorized the CIA to engage in covert actions within Venezuela, signaling a potential escalation in U.S. involvement.
Maduro’s government has responded by mobilizing “millions” of militia members, insisting that the Venezuelan population is united against foreign intervention. “The people of Venezuela are clear, united, and aware,” he stated during a televised address. Despite his claims of having over 8 million militia members, experts have expressed skepticism about the accuracy of these figures.
Maduro’s announcement and the ongoing U.S. military presence highlight a critical juncture in Venezuelan affairs. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) has documented the presence of Igla-S missiles in Venezuela, but the precise number remains unverified. The Russian export firm, Rosoboronexport, lists the missile’s range at up to 6,000 meters and altitude capabilities of 3,500 meters.
As tensions rise, the world watches closely. The potential for military confrontation looms large. Both Venezuela and the United States are in a high-stakes standoff, and developments are unfolding rapidly.
Officials from both the Venezuelan Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Department of Defense have been contacted for further comments, but responses are yet to be received. The situation remains fluid, and more updates are anticipated as events unfold.
