Chavez Says He May Send U.S.-Made Fighter Jets To Cuba, China

[Gold9472]

Chavez Says He May Send US-Made Fighter Jets to Cuba, China

http://www.voanews.com/english/2005-11-02-voa19.cfm

By VOA News
02 November 2005

Venezuela's president says his government may give its U.S.-made fighter jets to Cuba and China, after accusing the United States of breaking an agreement to provide jet parts.

President Hugo Chavez Tuesday said the United States is refusing to sell parts to Caracas to maintain its fleet of U.S.-made F-16 fighters. Mr. Chavez said his nation can do whatever it wants with the jets - even give them to Cuba and China.

The comments were made at a ceremony announcing Venezuela's plans to launch a telecommunications satellite with China's help.

A Defense Department official speaking on condition of anonymity says there has been no communication with Caracas about giving away the jets. The official also said U.S. laws strictly govern third party transfers.

Venezuela bought two-dozen F-16 jets from the United States in the 1980s.

[beltman713]

I really think he would be making a serious mistake if he were to do that.