Amid rising tensions with the United States, Venezuela is reportedly receiving military training from a controversial former Russian general dismissed from his command in Ukraine. Intelligence reports indicate General Makarevich is now leading a russian task force, the equator Task Force, in Venezuela, deepening military ties between Moscow and Caracas. While Russia maintains the presence is focused on counter-narcotics efforts, sources suggest a strategic move as the U.S. increases its regional military posture.
A former Russian general removed from his command following battlefield setbacks in Ukraine is now reportedly leading a Russian task force training Venezuelan armed forces, according to intelligence reports. The development signals a deepening of ties between Moscow and Caracas as the United States prepares to increase pressure on the Venezuelan government.
General Makarevich, previously dismissed by Vladimir Putin, now heads the Equator Task Force (ETF) within the Russian Ministry of Defense. The ETF comprises over 120 personnel involved in training Venezuelan military personnel across a range of disciplines, intelligence suggests.
A specialized unit focused on drone operation recently arrived in Venezuela to instruct local soldiers in the use of First Person View (FPV) drones – technology allowing operators to see real-time video feeds through goggles or a monitor.
While Russia officially states the mission is focused on combating drug trafficking, sources indicate the timing of the deployment is no coincidence. Venezuela serves as a key foothold for Russia in Latin America, particularly as the United States prepares to intensify its actions against Venezuela, Reuters reports. The increased U.S. activity underscores growing regional tensions.
