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Venezuela receives Russian military helicopters, February 22, 2006

As a part of a $201 million dollar arms deal between the two nations, Venezuela’s military received the first three of fifteen Russian-made MI-17 assault helicopters, which the Venezuelans say will be used to patrol the 1,400 mile long border with neighboring Colombia, a nation known for guerilla violence and is the world’s largest producer of cocaine. Venezuela has also ordered over 100,000 Kalashnikov rifles, claiming they are for defense in the event of a U.S. invasion, whereas critics are concerned the rifles may fall in the hands of leftist guerillas in neighboring countries and destabilize the region.


News Stories:

"Venezuela Receives First Shipment of Russian Military Helicopters "
Voice of America February 22, 2006
"First Shipment of Russian Helicopters Arrives in Venezuela "
Mosnews (Russia) February 22, 2006
"Venezuela gets new Russian military helicopters "
Reuters February 21, 2006

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February 22, 2006