MILITARY-STRATEGIC COOPERATION BETWEEN THE PRC AND THE LAC COUNTRIES IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF THE 21ST CENTURY

The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the development of military-strategic cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) in the first quarter of the 21st century. The research methodology is based on the principles of historicism and comparative analysis, which made it possible to trace the stages of transformation in China’s foreign policy, identify its instruments of influence, and highlight the regional specificities of cooperation. The chronological method was applied to explore the evolution of China’s strategy, from economic partnership to a broader multidimensional approach that includes military engagement. Scientific novelty lies in the fact that the authors offer a systemic analysis of the transformation of China’s regional policy through the lens of security, as reflected in official strategies as well as practical initiatives, projects, and military-political ties with specific LAC states. The authors conclude that China’s military-strategic presence in the LAC region is a component of its global strategy aimed at forming a multi-channel network of influence and securing access to strategic infrastructure. Special attention is paid to the cases of cooperation with Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela. It is emphasized that this cooperation encompasses both traditional military formats (such as training, arms transfers, and defense forums) and innovative forms, including peacekeeping webinars, space programs, and investments in dual-use port and transport infrastructure. The article also explores the response of the United States and regional actors to the growing Chinese presence, including tensions and competition in telecommunications, logistics, and space. A key focus is placed on the interconnection between China’s economic and security policies, which are increasingly deployed in tandem, especially in regions adjacent to U.S. spheres of influence.