Russian Influence in Venezuela What Should the United States Do?

As a wave of public support for democratic transition is sweeping Venezuela and the international community, Moscow continues to stand by Nicolás Maduro. Displays of military force, Rosneft’s 49.9 percent collateral in Venezuelan-owned CITGO refinery, and billions in loans to Maduro, showcase Russia’s rooted geopolitical and economic interests in Venezuela and the hemisphere.

What drives Russian support for Maduro? What is its role in the unfolding humanitarian, economic, and political crisis? How can the United States counter Russian involvement in Venezuela?

The Atlantic Council’s Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center and the Eurasia Center hosted an event on June 20, 2019 to discuss the extent of Russian involvement in Venezuela, Moscow’s motivations and possible next moves, and how the United States should react.