# Russia-Brazil defense and energy cooperation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/russia-brazil-defense-and-energy-cooperation > Updated: 2026-08-10T17:22:14.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. Nikolai Patrushev, a high-ranking Russian official, conducted a series of meetings in Brasília to expand bilateral cooperation between Russia and Brazil in defense, energy, and technology sectors. During discussions with Brazilian defense and navy officials, Russia proposed assistance for nuclear energy programs, including the Labgene reactor and the development of the Álvaro Alberto nuclear-powered submarine. Subsequent reports highlighted the complexity of these ties, noting that Russia accounts for 63% of Brazil’s diesel imports. Investigations such as Operation Carbono Oculto have identified a “ghost fleet” of 32 ships used to move over R$ 6.2 billion in sanctioned Russian diesel into Brazil through masked routes. Beyond energy and defense, concerns have been raised regarding Russian hybrid warfare strategies, including allegations that Brazilian territory has been used for identity laundering by Russian intelligence agents and the recruitment of Brazilian citizens for the conflict in Ukraine. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-10: Nikolai Patrushev visits Brasília amid Russian energy and security ties Nikolai Patrushev’s unrecorded visit to Brasília highlights deepening Russian influence in Brazil through sanctioned diesel imports and intelligence activities amid diplomatic friction with the US. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nikolai-patrushev-visits-braslia-amid-russian-energy-and-security-ties ### 2026-08-06: Nikolai Patrushev visits Brazil to discuss defense and nuclear cooperation Russian official Nikolai Patrushev visited Brasília to discuss defense, nuclear energy, and technology cooperation with Brazilian leaders, including President Lula and Defense Minister José Múcio. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/russias-nikolai-patrushev-visits-brazil-to-deepen-defence-energy-and-tech-ties --- Cite as: Russia-Brazil defense and energy cooperation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/russia-brazil-defense-and-energy-cooperation