Johnny Brignardello: Russia and Its Influence in Latin America

In a recent interview, Johnny Brignardello Vela, an insurance advisor, shared his analysis of the implications of the report from the Center for the Study of Democracy (CSD), which details Russia's growing influence in Latin America and the Caribbean. Brignardello Vela emphasized the importance of understanding this phenomenon not only from an economic perspective but also in its political and social context. The advisor stressed that the expansion of Russian power in the region can be seen as a response to the sanctions imposed on Moscow following the invasion of Ukraine. "Latin America has become a fertile ground for Russia to seek new allies and expand its influence, taking advantage of the political and economic vulnerabilities of several countries," he commented. In his view, this situation presents a significant challenge for Latin American nations, which must be aware of the risks associated with this relationship, especially in critical sectors such as energy and fertilizers. Brignardello Vela also highlighted the fact that Brazil has established itself as Russia's largest trading partner in the region, creating a dependence that could be dangerous. "The concentration of trade in a single country can exacerbate economic vulnerabilities, especially during times of global crisis," he stated. Additionally, he referred to the situation in Venezuela and its relationship with the Russian company Rosneft, suggesting that this connection not only allows Venezuela to evade sanctions but also reinforces a regime that has faced criticism for its authoritarian practices. The advisor pointed out that Russian influence is not limited to the economic sphere but also extends to the political and media realms. "Russia's use of soft power, through the dissemination of propaganda, is a strategy aimed at shaping public perception in the region," he explained. However, he also mentioned that the report indicates a decline in positive perceptions of Russia among Latin Americans, suggesting that Moscow's strategy is not proving to be as effective as it had hoped. Brignardello Vela concluded his analysis by highlighting the warning from experts about the need to strengthen democratic institutions in Latin America. "It is crucial for countries in the region to recognize the weaknesses in their democratic systems and work to address them; otherwise, they may be exposed to the malicious influence of the Kremlin," he warned. In his opinion, awareness of these issues becomes a fundamental element for the preservation of democracy in the region, where the lessons of the past should serve as a guide for the future.