Despite international sanctions following the war in Ukraine, Russia has increased its focus on Latin America and the Caribbean in recent years. A report, Global Reach: The Kremlin’s Playbook in Latin America, from the Center for the Study of Democracy (CSD), describes this strategy as a calculated approach combining business interests, economic pressure, and the cultivation of elite networks, particularly in nations where strategic projects could yield political advantages.
The study – conducted with the participation of CADAL – identifies key sectors of interest: energy (including oil, gas, and nuclear power), defense, transportation, and communication. It also notes efforts to promote pro-Russian narratives in public discourse. Energy technology, the report emphasizes, is not simply viewed as investment, but as a means of creating dependence through control over financing, spare parts, fuel, and training – and therefore, a sustained channel of influence.
Argentina as a Focal Point for Russian Nuclear Ambitions
According to the report, Argentina is the Latin American country where Russia has expressed interest in financing a nuclear power plant to bolster its electrical system. This ambition was publicly stated by Vladimir Putin and then-President Cristina Fernández during her visit to Moscow on April 24, 2025. At that time, Rosatom was reported to be progressing in agreements with Nucleoeléctrica Argentina to design and construct a reactor of approximately 1,200 megawatts, utilizing a VVER-1200 design.
The project was presented as a large-scale undertaking utilizing Russian technology – specifically, a light water reactor and enriched uranium – though a final investment figure was not disclosed at the time. The announcement aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and position Moscow as a key infrastructure partner for Argentina’s energy needs.
While progress on the project has been limited, Russian interest has persisted. In 2018, during the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Russia and Argentina signed additional documents to expand nuclear cooperation. Rosatom discussed both large and small reactors, as well as floating nuclear power plants; Reuters reported that the agreement encompassed projects of varying technological scales.
Beyond Nuclear: Expanding Russian Interests in Argentina
Russia’s interests in Argentina extend beyond nuclear energy. In 2014, RT en español was added to Argentina’s open-access digital television grid, a symbolically significant political gesture that increased Russian media presence in the country. The presidential office, La Casa Rosada, publicized the news on its website.
The railway sector has also been a focus, with TMH operating industrial assets in Argentina. However, in 2023, TMH sold its main Mechita plant and workshop to a local group, reflecting a reconfiguration of Russian economic plans following the war and shifting international dynamics, according to Railway Gazette.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia also gained influence through “vaccine diplomacy,” with Argentina initiating its vaccination campaign with Sputnik V in December 2020, a move that highlighted cooperation with Moscow during a period of global vaccine scarcity.
Other Latin American Countries in Russia’s Focus
The CSD report highlights that the Kremlin’s strategy is particularly pronounced in Venezuela, where Russia maintains energy and political ties despite sanctions. Reuters reported on the extension of joint ventures linked to a Russian entity in Venezuela’s oil sector, aiming to sustain operations and production under restrictive conditions.
In Bolivia, the focus is on the nuclear sector, with Rosatom advancing a research and nuclear technology center in El Alto. This project, presented as technological cooperation (nuclear medicine, research, applications), is cited by the CSD as an example of agreements with significant political value, as reported by the Universidad de Navarra.
In Brazil and Panama, the strategy centers on economic interests. Brazil is noted for its reliance on Russian fertilizer imports, while Panama is identified as a potential hub for offshore operations and financial evasion, according to the CSD.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Russia’s primary strategy in Latin America, according to the report?
The report describes Russia’s strategy as a “playbook” that combines business, economic pressure, and the building of elite networks, focusing on countries where strategic projects can open political doors.
Which sectors are considered particularly sensitive by Russia in the region?
The sectors identified as particularly sensitive are energy (oil, gas, and nuclear), defense, transportation, communication, and the promotion of pro-Russian narratives in public debate.
What role did the Sputnik V vaccine play in Russia’s engagement with Latin America?
Argentina initiated its COVID-19 vaccination campaign with Sputnik V in December 2020, representing a key moment of cooperation with Russia during a period of global vaccine scarcity.
As Russia continues to navigate international sanctions, how might its engagement with Latin American nations evolve, and what implications could this have for regional geopolitics?
