Background and Relevance
Nicolás Maduro, the President of Venezuela, arrived in Russia on Wednesday morning to meet with his counterpart, Vladimir Putin. This visit comes after a videoconference on March 14, during which Putin extended an invitation for Maduro to visit Moscow to sign an agreement aimed at “expanding” bilateral cooperation.
Celebrations for the 80th Anniversary of Victory Day
Russia is hosting leaders from around thirty countries for the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Maduro’s Arrival and Meeting with Putin
Maduro landed in Moscow at 1:01 AM local time on Wednesday, accompanied by his wife, Cilia Flores, according to footage broadcast by Venezuela’s state television channel, VTV. Following a videoconference on March 14, Putin extended the invitation for Maduro to visit Moscow to sign an agreement intended to broaden their bilateral cooperation.
On Wednesday, Putin will meet with Maduro and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, two traditional Russian allies in Latin America, according to an announcement from the Kremlin.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s advisor for diplomatic affairs, stated to reporters: “Venezuela is a reliable partner of Russia. Bilateral ties continue to develop in all areas.”
During their meeting, Maduro and Putin are expected to sign a “strategic partnership agreement” with Russia.
The celebrations will conclude on May 9 with a grand military parade in Red Square, Moscow.
Historical Context and Current Relations
Relations between Moscow and Caracas have grown closer during Hugo Chávez’s presidency (1999-2013) and have continued to strengthen under Maduro.
Russia supports Maduro amidst questions surrounding his re-election on July 28, 2024, which has been disavowed by Washington amid opposition allegations of electoral fraud. The opposition claims victory for exiled Edmundo González Urrutia.
In return, Venezuela backs Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Nicolás Maduro? Nicolás Maduro is the current President of Venezuela, who succeeded Hugo Chávez after his death in 2013.
- Why is Maduro visiting Russia? Maduro is visiting Russia to meet with President Vladimir Putin and sign an agreement aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
- What is the significance of this visit? This visit marks a continuation of the strong relationship between Venezuela and Russia, which has grown since Hugo Chávez’s presidency. Both countries support each other in international matters, such as Russia’s conflict with Ukraine and Maduro’s re-election.
- What is the strategic partnership agreement? The strategic partnership agreement is a formal document that outlines the cooperation and collaboration between Russia and Venezuela in various sectors, including politics, economy, defense, and culture.
