Venezuela’s Maduro Threatens “Republic in Arms” Against US Naval Buildup

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vowed to declare a “republic in arms” if the country is attacked. The threat is a direct response to a major US naval deployment to the Caribbean Sea. This military movement is escalating tensions between the two nations significantly.

According to the Associated Press, the US is sending thousands of personnel to combat drug trafficking. The US government has not signaled any planned land invasion of Venezuela.

US Naval Forces Gather Near Venezuelan Waters

The US Navy’s presence is already substantial. Guided-missile destroyers like the USS Gravely are currently stationed in the region. This force is set to expand dramatically in the coming days.

Three amphibious assault ships will soon enter the Caribbean. This deployment encompasses over 4,000 sailors and Marines. The move is part of a broader US effort to target Latin American drug cartels.

President Donald Trump has pushed for using military force to stop drug flows. He blames these cartels for bringing fentanyl and violence into US cities.

Venezuela Denounces US Narrative and Mobilizes Forces

Venezuela’s government has called the US deployment a “false narrative.” Foreign Minister Yván Gil cited a United Nations report on drug trafficking. He stated that most cocaine from Colombia departs via the Pacific Ocean, not through Venezuela.

Despite this, Caracas is taking the threat extremely seriously. Maduro has ordered troops to deploy along the coast and the border with Colombia. Citizens are being urged to enlist in civilian militias for national defense.

Maduro labeled the US operation an “extravagant and criminal threat.” He warned that any attack would lead to a full regional destabilization.

The situation creates a precarious standoff. Any miscalculation could have severe consequences for the entire hemisphere. The declaration of a Venezuelan republic in arms signals a readiness for total war.

Info at your fingertips

What does “republic in arms” mean?

It is a constitutional declaration signaling a state of total national defense. It typically mobilizes all civilian and military resources to resist an invasion.

Why is the US sending ships to the Caribbean?

The official US reason is to combat drug trafficking cartels. The operation aims to intercept narcotics shipments before they reach the United States.

Has the US threatened to invade Venezuela?

No. The US government has not signaled any plans for a land incursion. The deployment is officially for maritime drug interdiction efforts.

How has Venezuela’s opposition reacted?

Opposition leader María Corina Machado has thanked the US for the deployment. She described the Maduro government as a “criminal enterprise.”

Is this related to Venezuela’s disputed election?

Yes. The political crisis stems from Maduro’s 2024 election victory. Many nations, including the US, do not recognize his government as legitimate.

Could this lead to a wider conflict?

Potentially. Venezuela’s foreign minister warned an attack would destabilize the entire Latin American region, drawing in neighboring countries.

Sources: The Associated Press, Reuters.