Related videos:
The Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro reiterated on Friday that his country is prepared to enter a phase of "planned armed struggle" in the event of a military aggression from the United States, amid rising tensions between Caracas and Washington over the presence of naval and air forces in the Caribbean.
"Right now we are in the phase of preparation and readiness, and we will move to the phase of deploying defensive capabilities and retraining the entire population. We are still in the phase of unarmed struggle, which is political and communicational. But if Venezuela were to be attacked in any way, we would enter a stage of armed struggle, planned and organized by the entire people against the aggression," Maduro stated in remarks broadcasted by state media.
The leader made the announcement dressed in his military attire, following the order from the President of the United States, Donald Trump, who authorized the military forces to shoot down Venezuelan aircraft that harass U.S. vessels deployed in international waters in the Caribbean.
"If they do something dangerous, we will take them down," Trump said during a press conference at the White House, addressing Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
The Pentagon reported on Friday that two F-16 fighter jets from the Bolivarian National Armed Force (FANB) flew at low altitude over the USS Jason Dunham, a maneuver that was described as "highly provocative" and aimed at interfering with anti-narcotics and anti-terrorism operations.
In response, Maduro reiterated that his country does not fear Washington's warnings and defended the mobilization of its militias. "We would enter a stage of armed struggle in defense of peace, territorial integrity, sovereignty, and our people," he assured.
The Venezuelan leader also confirmed two days ago that he maintains "open channels of communication" with the United States, although he admitted that "both are battered." He recalled that this stance was a "golden rule" inherited from Hugo Chávez.
The tension between both countries has been rising in recent weeks, following a U.S. military attack that resulted in 11 deaths by sinking a Venezuelan vessel accused of transporting drugs, and the recent deployment of 10 F-35 fighter jets in Puerto Rico to bolster aerial presence in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Escalation of Tensions between Venezuela and the United States
Why has Nicolás Maduro threatened with an "armed struggle"? (armed struggle Venezuela)
Nicolás Maduro has threatened with an "armed struggle" in response to a possible military aggression from the United States. This statement arises amid rising tensions due to the presence of U.S. naval and air forces in the Caribbean, which Maduro sees as a direct threat to Venezuela's sovereignty. The Venezuelan government is mobilizing its militias and preparing for an armed defense in the event of conflict.
What actions has the United States taken in response to Venezuela's actions? (United States actions Venezuela)
The United States has authorized its military forces to take down Venezuelan aircraft that pose a threat to its ships in the Caribbean. This measure was announced by President Donald Trump following provocative flyovers by Venezuelan jets over the USS Jason Dunham destroyer. Additionally, the U.S. has deployed stealth aircraft and ships in the region to bolster its presence and anti-narcotics operations.
What is the role of the Bolivarian Militia in this context of tension? (Bolivarian Militia Venezuela)
The Bolivarian Militia has been mobilized by Nicolás Maduro as part of Venezuela's defense strategy against threats from the United States. This body, composed of armed civilians and officials aligned with Chavismo, has been prepared to participate in a potential armed confrontation. Maduro's regime has announced the deployment of millions of militiamen across the country to strengthen its defensive capability.
What recent incidents have escalated tensions between Washington and Caracas? (Washington Caracas conflict)
Tensions have escalated due to several incidents, including the flight of Venezuelan fighter jets over a U.S. destroyer and a U.S. military attack on a Venezuelan ship allegedly carrying drugs. These events have led to heightened diplomatic and military hostilities, with the United States reinforcing its military presence in the Caribbean and Venezuela mobilizing its defensive forces.
What role do drug trafficking accusations play in the conflict between the United States and Venezuela? (drug trafficking Venezuela)
The accusations of drug trafficking are a central factor in the tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Washington has labeled Nicolás Maduro's regime as a "narcoterrorist cartel" and has linked the Venezuelan government to drug trafficking to the U.S. These accusations have been used by the Trump administration to justify its military presence in the Caribbean and its pressure on Maduro's government.
Filed under: