Two Russian naval vessels arrived in Venezuela on Tuesday for a brief stopover, confirmed by Moscow's defense ministry, underscoring the robust relationship between the two nations.

According to Russian officials, the primary objective of the visit of the frigate Admiral Gorshkov and the oil tanker Academic Pashin, both from the Northern Fleet, is to assert naval presence in strategically significant areas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Last month, these same ships, along with a Russian nuclear-powered submarine, visited Cuba where they conducted exercises focusing on the use of high-precision missile weaponry, as reported by the Russian defense ministry.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a staunch supporter of Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, has previously referred to Putin as "our older brother."

The timing of the naval visit coincides with Maduro's bid for reelection in a July 28 vote, amidst ongoing challenges including economic collapse and severe Western sanctions aimed at ousting him from power.

"The visit will last several days, after which the sailors from the Northern Fleet will resume their operational duties in the Atlantic Ocean," stated the Russian defense ministry.

Russia and Venezuela have developed close ties primarily based on shared anti-Western sentiments and a mutual desire to counterbalance U.S. influence in Latin America. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has openly praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, portraying him as a strategic ally in global politics.

The recent docking of Russian naval ships in Venezuela underscores the military dimension of their relationship. Russia has supplied Venezuela with military equipment, including aircraft and tanks, and has conducted joint military exercises. This military cooperation serves both countries' interests in enhancing defense capabilities and projecting power.

Economic ties between Russia and Venezuela focus heavily on energy. Russia's state-owned energy giant, Rosneft, has invested in Venezuela's oil sector despite its economic challenges. Venezuela's vast oil reserves provide Russia with a strategic foothold in the Western Hemisphere amid global energy dynamics.

Russia has consistently supported Venezuela diplomatically, particularly at international forums like the United Nations. It has defended Venezuela against criticism from Western nations and supported Maduro's government during periods of political instability and economic crisis.

Both Russia and Venezuela are subject to significant Western sanctions. Russia's support for Venezuela can be seen as part of its broader strategy to challenge Western hegemony and expand its influence in Latin America, while Venezuela benefits from economic and diplomatic lifelines amid isolation. (ILKHA)