In a dramatic response to heightened tensions with the United States, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has declared the mobilization of millions in militia forces. This move comes as the US government intensifies its pressure on his regime by doubling the bounty for his arrest to $50 million and deploying military assets in the Caribbean.
Key Facts
- The US has deployed three guided-missile destroyers near Venezuelan waters.
- President Maduro has pledged to activate over 4.5 million militiamen to cover national territory.
- The Venezuelan militia, initially founded by Hugo Chavez, reportedly has around five million members.
- The US accuses Maduro of connections with the cocaine trafficking Cartel de los Soles, which he denies.
Background
The Venezuelan militia was established by former President Hugo Chavez and is claimed to possess about five million members, though analysts believe this number is inflated. Venezuela’s total population stands at approximately 30 million, making the militia size particularly significant. The recent actions by the US, including the increased bounty and military presence, underscore the severe deterioration in US-Venezuela relations following disputed election results which the US has not recognized.
Official Reactions
During a televised address, Maduro denounced what he termed as ‘extravagant, bizarre and outlandish threats’ from the US. He further vowed to equip the militia with ‘rifles and missiles’ as a defensive measure against potential threats to Venezuela’s sovereignty. Additionally, Diosdado Cabello, Venezuelan Interior Minister, emphasized the deployment of Venezuelan forces throughout the Caribbean to protect national territory.
Internationally, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has voiced skepticism about US claims linking Maduro to drug trafficking, citing a lack of evidence.
What’s Next
The escalation in military and rhetorical exchanges between Venezuela and the United States marks a significant uptick in geopolitical tensions in the region. With the US military’s presence off the coast and Venezuela’s large-scale militia mobilization, the international community is closely watching for any further developments that might impact regional stability.
This situation continues to unfold as both nations assert their military and diplomatic positions, with potential implications for international relations and regional security.