Venezuela has activated full military preparedness across its armed forces this week, mobilizing 200,000 regular troops and civilian militia units in response to the USS Gerald R. Ford's deployment near Latin American waters. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier's repositioning marks the U.S. Navy's most significant show of force in the region this year.
Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López announced the measures during a televised address on November 12, stating: "We will defend our sovereignty against any foreign intervention disguised as counter-narcotics operations." The development comes as regional analysts observe heightened tensions following Washington's recent characterization of Venezuela as a "narco-state."
U.S. Southern Command maintains the carrier group's presence supports joint anti-trafficking operations with Colombia and Brazil. However, Caracas claims the mobilization threatens regional stability, with President Nicolás Maduro accusing Washington of "manufacturing pretexts for aggression."
The strategic maneuvering occurs amid Venezuela's ongoing economic recovery efforts and renewed diplomatic engagements with Asian partners, including recent energy sector investments from Chinese mainland firms. Military analysts note the situation could impact shipping lanes critical to Asia-Latin America trade corridors.
