Maduro mobilizes militia against U.S. naval patrols

Venezuela.- Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced a weekend mobilization of the Bolivarian National Militia in response to proposed U.S. naval patrols in Caribbean waters aimed at combating drug trafficking. The initiative, part of the “National Plan for Sovereignty and Peace,” invites militia members, reservists, and civilians to enlist and join local defense efforts in military barracks, public squares, and popular defense bases across the country.

Maduro recently ordered the deployment of 4.5 million militiamen after the U.S. increased the reward for information leading to his capture to US$50 million. The United States has also sent 4,000 agents, mainly Marines, along with ships, aircraft, and missile systems to the region. In response, Venezuelan authorities have strengthened their own naval presence. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both nations to resolve tensions peacefully, while Venezuela has received support from ALBA countries and allies including China and Iran.

In addition, Maduro integrated the Militia into the Peace Quadrants—local security networks that combine police forces and community representatives—deploying members to 5,336 communities. These forces will participate in patrols, surveillance, and other citizen security actions to protect Venezuela’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and public safety. The move aims to enhance coordination between security forces and communities and strengthen Venezuela’s “immediate reaction capacity” against perceived threats.