Russia deploys Bombers to Venezuela; Fmr. MP says Guyana must object

Venezuela has welcomed the arrival of Russian Tu-160 strategic bombers as an opportunity to demonstrate its resolve to defend the nation against possible foreign military intervention, with the help of “friends” if need be, RT news has reported.

But former Minister of Natural Resources, Robert Persaud says that the Guyana Government should “strongly protest” to the Russian Federation as it has implications for ongoing border case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ)

In a statement on his Facebook page, Mr Persaud, a former Parliamentarian, noted that Guyana should also register its concerns to Venezuela as well as regional and multilateral fora.

“While sovereign nations are free to conduct military drills, this one in the context geo-political tensions can have implications for the on-going Guyana Venezuela border case before #ICJ and security of our region.

“Let’s not forget Russia’s recent posture on others’ territories.  Why this fanciful #RussiaVenezuela excursions at a time of significant progress in developing our offshore #oilandgas?” Persaud noted.

According to RT news, the two Tu-160 strategic bombers made a gracious landing at SimónBolívar International Airport on Monday where they were greeted by the honor guard of the Venezuelan air force.

The bombers are expected to take part in “combined operational flights” with the Venezuelan Air Force.

“We are getting prepared to defend Venezuela when it is needed.”

And Venezuela “will do it with our friends who advocate respect-based relations between states,” Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez was quoted as saying in the article.

According to RT, the Tu-160, nicknamed the ‘White Swan’ in Russia and designated as ‘Blackjack’ by NATO, is the largest supersonic combat aircraft in the world.

The long-range aircraft, capable of carrying nuclear and conventional missiles, can cover a distance of more than 12,000 kilometers without refueling.