In a recent press conference, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro expressed his readiness to declare a “republic in arms” if U.S. forces launch an assault on Venezuela, amid heightened military presence in the Caribbean. This statement follows the Trump administration’s decision to enhance its naval defenses in the region, purportedly to combat threats posed by Latin American drug cartels.
Though Washington has not indicated any plans for a land incursion, Maduro’s administration has taken precautionary measures by mobilizing over 15,000 troops along the nation’s coasts and its border with Colombia. Additionally, he has called on Venezuelans to join a civilian militia in preparation for potential conflict.
“In the face of this maximum military pressure, we have declared maximum preparedness for the defence of Venezuela,” Maduro stated, describing the U.S. military presence as an “extravagant, unjustifiable, immoral and absolutely criminal and bloody threat.”
Maduro emphasized that the current situation represents the most serious threat the continent has faced in a century, citing the deployment of U.S. naval vessels including two Aegis-guided missile destroyers and multiple amphibious assault ships, which collectively house more than 4,000 sailors and Marines.
U.S. military strategy and regional implications
The U.S. Navy’s increased activity in the Caribbean is part of President Trump’s ongoing strategy to curb drug trafficking, particularly targeting the flow of fentanyl and other narcotics into American communities. A U.S. defense official confirmed that the USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham, USS Sampson, and USS Lake Erie are currently stationed in the region.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil contested the motives behind the U.S. military’s deployment, arguing that it is based on a “false narrative.” He pointed to a UN report indicating that 87% of cocaine produced in Colombia is shipped via the Pacific Ocean, with only a small fraction reportedly passing through Venezuela. Gil cautioned that an attack on Venezuela could have dire ramifications for regional stability, urging fellow Latin American nations to advocate for the cessation of U.S. military maneuvers in the area.
Political tensions and calls for reform
Maduro also reaffirmed his position as the legitimate president following the controversial elections held in July last year, which faced widespread allegations of irregularities and were not recognized by several nations, including the United States. In response, the Venezuelan opposition, led by figures such as María Corina Machado, has been lobbying for increased international pressure on Maduro’s regime.
Machado recently praised the U.S. naval deployment, characterizing it as an appropriate stance against what she labeled a “criminal enterprise.” In a stark warning, Maduro cautioned Trump that any military action against Venezuela would lead to consequences that would leave a dark mark on his legacy, asserting that such action would “stain (Trump’s hands) with blood.”