Ileana Ros-Lehtinen Warns of Putin Regime Influence in Latin America

U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Fla., a leading congressional voice on international affairs, rang the warning bell on Monday as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visits Cuba, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Colombia later this week.

"It is not surprising that the autocratic Russian regime is working to strengthen ties with Ortegas Nicaragua, Castros Cuba, and other Latin American nations, Ros-Lehtinen said. This supposed goodwill tour is nothing more than a play for more influence in our region. From Russia docking a spy ship in Havana's harbor to an increase of military assistance in Nicaragua, Russia's activities in our region undermine our national security. We must continue to monitor and counter Russian activities in Latin America to ensure that these diplomatic visits are not a cover for more nefarious activities.