Venezuela Boosts Militia Readiness Amid US Military Deployment in Latin American Waters – What You Need to Know

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro recently announced the mobilization of 4.5 million militiamen across the country. He declared, “No empire will touch the sacred soil of Venezuela,” in response to the U.S. increasing the reward for information leading to his capture and ramping up military presence in the region.

The U.S. confirmed it has deployed naval forces around Latin America to combat drug trafficking. Reports suggest three U.S. Navy destroyers and about 4,000 troops will approach Venezuela’s coast soon, although a Pentagon official later stated there were currently no ships in the area.

During a televised address, Maduro emphasized his commitment to activate a national defense plan using the militia. He labeled U.S. threats as “extravagant” and “bizarre” and insisted they were old rehashes of past accusations. His defense focus remains on safeguarding land, sea, and air in Venezuela and South America.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the situation, affirming that the U.S. is prepared to utilize all available means to tackle drug trafficking. She also reiterated that the U.S. does not recognize Maduro as a legitimate leader, a claim reinforced by the absence of diplomatic relations since 2019.

The Venezuelan government has rejected U.S. accusations, describing them as threats and defamation. The Venezuelan Militia, conceived by the late Hugo Chávez and reinforced in 2010, aims to incorporate civilians into military operations for national defense. Maduro stated plans to boost worker militias in factories and workplaces, insisting that “missiles and rifles” would empower the working class to protect the homeland.

Recent statistics indicate that the Venezuelan military consists of around 95,000 to 150,000 active personnel. The Global Fire Power index ranks Venezuela 50th out of 145 countries in military strength. Comparatively, the U.S. holds the top spot, followed by Russia and China.

The U.S. recently escalated its response to what it calls Maduro’s drug trafficking, increasing the reward for information about him to $50 million. The Venezuelan officials regard these claims as unfounded and propaganda. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello referred to the alleged “Cartel de los Soles” as a fabrication by the U.S.

As tensions rise, user reactions on social media reflect a mix of fear, support for Maduro, and skepticism toward U.S. motives. Historical patterns show this conflict is not new, echoing previous U.S.-Venezuela tensions over the years, especially during the Chávez and Maduro administrations.

Stay updated on the latest events by checking trusted news sources like the BBC and Reuters.

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