The Putin-Chavez Partnership

Abstract

Under President Vladimir Putin, Russia’s ties to Venezuela have grown notably warmer, while its relations with Cuba have cooled. Putin clearly appreciates President Hugo Chavez’s anti-American policy and rhetoric far more than similar expressions by Fidel Castro. As this suggests, shared anti-American interests are not enough to explain Putin’s policies toward either leader or country. Russia, though, has developed very different economic relationships with Venezuela and Cuba. This appears to explain Putin’s warmth toward Chavez and his lack of it toward Castro.