President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela declared on Saturday that a comprehensive strategy to defend the country against perceived threats from the United States has been finalized. This announcement coincides with the deployment of US warships along Venezuela’s coast, which has escalated tensions between the two nations.
The United States has accused Maduro of leading a drug cartel responsible for trafficking narcotics, prompting the deployment of significant military resources, including stealth warplanes and several Navy ships, aimed at counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean region. These actions are part of a broader effort by Washington to address what it perceives as the growing influence of drug trafficking emanating from Venezuela.
In a defiant stance, Maduro, an authoritarian leader often criticized for electoral fraud and human rights abuses, claimed that the US military posture is a precursor to an orchestrated attempt at regime change. The rhetoric escalated following comments from former President Donald Trump, who suggested that he had sanctioned covert CIA operations targeting Maduro’s government, although specifics were not disclosed.
In response to the increased US military presence, Maduro has initiated military drills across the country and mobilized troops to the borders. In a recorded statement shared on Telegram, he confirmed, “Today we have completed all the country’s integrated defense zones,” emphasizing his commitment to strengthening the nation’s military readiness.
The Venezuelan leader also unveiled a new military exercise dubbed Independence 200, which is part of a series of drills frequently conducted at night and typically do not lead to a permanent repositioning of military assets. State television broadcast footage showing soldiers departing their barracks as part of these exercises.
Participation in these military drills has extended beyond the armed forces, including authorities from police, civil protection agencies, and members of civilian militias. This broad mobilization reflects the rising tensions with the United States, which have recently led to military confrontations in Caribbean waters.
Reports indicate that US forces have engaged and destroyed at least six vessels accused of transporting drugs from Venezuela to the United States, resulting in at least 27 fatalities. These actions mark a significant intensification of US counter-narcotics efforts in the region, further complicating the already strained relations between Washington and Caracas. The situation remains dynamic, with both nations poised for continued military engagement.
