Tracing bilateral security cooperation: the asymmetric deterioration of US–Venezuelan defense relations

Abstract

The USA and Venezuela enjoyed a robust bilateral defense relationship for much of the twentieth century. By the 2000s, however, security cooperation had deteriorated. What explains these changes, and what were the key inflection points? Taking a descriptive methodological approach, we use official documents, public declarations, and data on arms transfers, joint military exercises, and military training, to show that the erosion of the relationship driven largely by Venezuela—specifically, its government’s anti-Americanism and counter-hegemonic aspirations in the 1999–2006 period—and was further aided by a lack of US engagement. Subsequent attempts at US reengagement have been limited and unfocused, while Venezuela has turned to other states as security cooperation providers. Ultimately, the decay of this bilateral defense relationship holds serious security implications for the Americas and offers lessons for both scholars and policymakers.