During the 1980s, the Soviet Union provided full political, economic, military, and diplomatic support to the left wing government of Nicaragua.

This was not only a reaction to the Contra resistance movement but a full-fledged alliance with the Soviet Union, which provided free credit, economic subsidies and heavy weapon grants.

Cuban army and political delegates, subsidized by Russian money, were permanently staffed in Nicaragua, making the country a member of the Communist bloc.

[citation needed] Russian support has become more important to Nicaragua following withdrawal in late 2008 of US and European aid due to concerns about electoral fraud and handling of human rights and democracy.

State TV host Olga Skabeeva said: "It's time for Russia to roll out something powerful closer to the American city upon a hill.