The arrival of Russian warplanes in Venezuela and plans for joint naval operations in the Caribbean raise eyebrows at a time of strained relations between Washington and Moscow. But the use of ships and aircraft dating from the Cold War may lessen potential threats.

Venezuela continues its trend of nationalizations, with the cement industry serving as the latest example. Meanwhile, a series of decrees and blacklisting of candidates in advance of November municipal elections appear designed to strengthen Chávez’s hand.

U.S.-Russia tensions escalate over a proposed missile shield in Eastern Europe, sparking rumors that Moscow plans to station bombers in Cuba. Though the origin and veracity of the story remain unclear, Russian leaders called for renewed ties with Cuba after the countries inked a recent oil deal. 

In remarks to the American Jewish Committee, COA Vice President Eric Farnsworth examines Latin American links with Iran, particularly with Venezuela. Citing evidence of activities by Hezbollah agents in South American, Farnsworth offers recommendations to counter negative influences that could lead to terrorist actions.

With global commodity prices on the rise, many Latin American countries face soaring inflation. Yet experts suggest the region's economies are more well-girded than in the past to handle economic crises. The IMF's director discussed inflation at COA’s 38th Annual Washington Conference.

In recent days, Venezuela's President Hugo Chávez shifted tone on several policy fronts and urged the FARC to end its armed conflict with the Colombian government. But Chávez's critics complain he continues to attempt to silence opposition. 

With tensions running high between some Andean countries, AS/COA convened a roundtable on economic, political, and security issues affecting the region. The discussion included a keynote speech by Ecuador's Minister of the Government and Police Fernando Bustamante.