Venezuela has mobilised troops and civilian militias to counteract a substantial U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, framing it as an act of national defense.
Venezuela has deployed troops along its Caribbean coast and activated civilian militias in response to an escalating U.S. military presence in the region. State media presented footage of militia training and regular armed forces preparing for operations.
President Nicolás Maduro proclaimed, “The people are ready for combat, ready for battle,” as he urged recruitment from indigenous communities and pledged defense against any foreign aggression. Analysts note that Venezuela’s formal military, though numerically significant, is underfunded and vulnerable to morale issues.
The United States has deployed eight warships, F-35B jets, P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft, MQ-9 Reaper drones and special operations units near Venezuelan waters, citing anti-narcotic operations. At least five U.S. strikes on vessels allegedly carrying drugs have resulted in 27 deaths, drawing questions over legality and sovereignty.
Venezuela’s overt militarisation comes as international scrutiny mounts over U.S. covert and overt operations in the Caribbean, and amid Venezuelans’ mixed hopes that external pressure might precipitate political change.
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