Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has sent urgent requests to China and Russia for military support and equipment, fearing escalation from the United States, The Washington Post reported, citing diplomatic sources.

Maduro's announcements were a response to the increased US military presence in the Caribbean. Specifically, the US Federal Aviation Administration issued a NOTAM (notice to aviation) temporarily restricting a small area of ​​airspace near US bases in Puerto Rico. The restriction will take effect soon and last until March 31, 2026, coinciding with scheduled US Navy and Air Force exercises in the region.

American officials emphasize that the actions are training exercises, but analysts see them as a signal to Caracas.

"This is part of the effort to combat drug trafficking, but also a show of force," — the Pentagon representative noted.

The Venezuelan leader, in turn, assessed Washington's steps as a threat to sovereignty.