Two Russian Tu-160 strategic bombers arrive in Venezuela

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez delivers a speech during the reception ceremony for the Russian Armed Forces at the Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, Vargas State, Venezuela, Dec. 10, 2018. Two Russian Tupolev Tu-160 strategic bombers have arrived in Venezuela, the Russian defense ministry said in a statement. According to Russian news report, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez welcomed the Russian warplanes, saying that Venezuela is getting prepared to defend itself when needed and the country will do it with the friends who advocate respect-based relations between states. (Xinhua/Marcos Salgado)