EUROPEAN FREE PRESS: A repeat of the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. In a major geopolitical development, Russian naval vessels have officially docked at Venezuela’s La Guaira port. This is one of Moscow’s most visible military gestures in Latin America in years.

According to multiple reports, the deployment includes the Admiral Gorshkov frigate. It is one of Russia’s most advanced warships. The deployment also includes the Akademik Pashin, a fleet supply ship.

The Admiral Gorshkov is equipped with hypersonic Zircon missiles. These missiles can strike targets at speeds up to Mach 9. This capability gives the visit a clear strategic undertone.

Russian officials describe the operation as a ‘show-the-flag’ mission. It aims to reinforce Moscow’s global naval presence. The mission also seeks to strengthen ties with allies like Venezuela and Cuba. The stop in La Guaira follows similar port calls in Cuba earlier this year.

For Venezuela, the visit signals deepening military cooperation with Russia amid continued U.S. sanctions and growing tensions in the Caribbean.

Analysts say there’s no immediate threat of military escalation. However, this move underscores Russia’s intent to project power close to U.S. shores, just as NATO operates near Russia’s borders in Europe.

What we know so far

Russia’s navy has arrived in Venezuela. They are not there for war. Their presence reminds the world that Moscow’s reach now extends well into the Western Hemisphere.

Russia has quietly flown new missile systems to Venezuela, a senior Moscow politician has said.

Alexey Zhuravlyov is a top defence lawmaker. He told Russian TV that trucks carrying Pantsir-S1 and Buk-M2E missiles landed in Caracas. This happened in the past few days. Big Il-76 cargo planes made the trips, he said.

What are the weapons?

Pantsir-S1: A truck with radar on top and eight fast missiles plus two guns. It can knock out drones, helicopters or small rockets up to 20 km away.

Buk-M2E: A bigger system with long-range radar trucks and six large missiles each. It can hit fighter jets or cruise missiles up to 50 km away and 25 km high.

Mr Zhuravlyov said they will guard oil fields, power plants and the presidential palace from any surprise attack.

Venezuela already has older Russian missiles and fighter jets. This is the first big delivery in years.

Why now?

The United States has just put fresh sanctions on President Nicolás Maduro’s government. Washington says he stole last year’s election. Mr Maduro calls the sanctions economic war.

Russia is Venezuela’s closest ally. Moscow sells oil for food and sends soldiers to train local troops.

A new Cold War in Latin America?

Some experts worry the missiles could spark trouble. ‘If US jets fly too close, someone might fire by mistake,’ said Carla Reyes, a security analyst in Bogotá.

Others say it is just politics. ‘Russia wants to show it can still reach America’s backyard,’ said Mark Ellis, a former US diplomat.

What happens next?

The White House has not commented. Venezuela’s defence minister posted a short video of soldiers unloading green crates at night, but gave no details.

For now, the missiles are being driven to bases near the capital. Local people say they heard loud engines overhead for three nights in a row.

More arms could follow, Mr Zhuravlyov hinted, smiling on TV. ‘Friends help friends,’ he said.  You can and should share this story on social media. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

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