Chavez thanked Russia for agreeing to supply Venezuela with military aircraft in a planned deal reportedly worth $1 billion. He said Russia was helping Venezuela to break U.S. efforts to disarm it.
The United States has criticized Russia's decision to sell Venezuela 30 fighter jets and 30 military helicopters.
Washington prohibits U.S. companies from selling weapons to Venezuela, saying the weapons could fall into the hands of terrorists.
Chavez also called for increased Russian participation in gas and oil projects in Venezuela.
Putin wished Chavez success in Venezuela's December presidential election, in which Chavez plans to run for a second term.
(ITAR-TASS, Interfax)
Russian Arms Exports
Russia's advanced S-300 air-defense system (epa file photo)
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