Venezuela massive military mobilization
The government of Venezuela has announced a large‑scale military mobilization in response to rising tensions with the United States. According to a statement from Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López, the exercise involves the deployment of land, air, naval, riverine and missile forces, along with the activation of reserve and militia units.
The announcement comes at the same time that the US military’s USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest aircraft carrier in the US fleet, entered the Southern Command’s jurisdiction near Latin America. The Pentagon confirmed the carrier strike group’s arrival, citing counter‑narcotics operations.
Venezuelan authorities framed their mobilisation as a defensive measure against what they call an “imperialist threat” from the US. The mobilisation is part of the wider “Independence Plan 200,” a defence strategy directed by President Nicolás Maduro and his government.
In practical terms, the mobilisation encompasses a full military alert across the country, involving the regular armed forces and the Bolivarian Militia a reserve force of civilians established under the late president Hugo Chávez.
While the US frames its military presence in the Caribbean as part of anti‑drug trafficking efforts, Venezuela has repeatedly accused Washington of plotting regime change. The US has carried out numerous strikes on alleged drug‑smuggling vessels in the region in recent months.
International observers note that Venezuela’s military faces serious long‑term challenges, including economic decline, sanctions, and equipment shortages, which may limit its ability to engage in a prolonged confrontation.
