Venezuela Mobilizes 4.5 Million Citizens as Regional Tensions Escalate
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced a nationwide conscription drive on August 23-24 to expand the Bolivarian Militia, citing U.S. naval deployments near Venezuelan waters. The mobilization will occur at military bases, public squares, and over 15,000 defense centers, aiming to prepare citizens for "any emergencies."
U.S. Naval Presence Sparks Regional Backlash
The move follows Washington’s deployment of three destroyers with 4,000 personnel to the Caribbean under anti-narcotics operations. Earlier U.S. actions included offering $50 million for information leading to Maduro’s arrest over alleged drug trafficking ties. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the military maneuvers, urging resolution through dialogue and emphasizing non-intervention principles.
Latin American Leaders Rally for Sovereignty
Colombian President Gustavo Petro warned against unauthorized military operations in the region, calling them "an attack on Latin America." The developments highlight growing regional tensions as Caribbean and South American nations advocate for self-determination amid external pressures.
