Maduro Bolsters Military Exercises Amidst US Presence in venezuelan Waters
Caracas,Venezuela – Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has underscored the importance of national sovereignty and defense,highlighting the recently completed “Caribbean Operation 200” military exercise as a direct response to U.S. naval maneuvers in waters claimed by Venezuela. The 72-hour exercise involved enlistment, operations, and real-time deployments within the Venezuelan caribbean, according to Maduro, who also called for support from the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) in the country’s integral defense.
The operation is framed by the Venezuelan government as a necessary measure to counter what it views as aggression against its sovereignty. Maduro stated the U.S. exercises are taking place within Venezuelan jurisdiction, prompting a defensive response. A recent Telesur poll indicates that 91% of Venezuelans believe the country’s oil reserves are the primary motivation behind external threats, including those from the United States.
“We are obliged to defend ourselves and to exercise sovereignty,” Maduro explained, reiterating his desire for “sovereignty, peace, self-determination” and rejecting foreign intervention. He dismissed international accusations against Venezuela as a fabricated narrative, akin to a “Hollywood” movie designed to justify intervention, citing reports from the United nations Organization, the European Union, and the World Customs Organization as evidence.
Maduro emphasized the strategic importance of Venezuela’s natural resources - possessing the world’s largest oil reserves, the fourth largest gas reserves, and the largest gold reserves - as a key factor driving external interest. “Why do you think they want to bomb and invade Venezuela? Why do they love us very much?” he asked rhetorically.
Despite perceived threats, Maduro expressed confidence in Venezuela’s ability to maintain its independence and freedom. “That has not happened or will happen. It is written that Venezuela will shine for its independence and for its freedom and that there will be peace,” he stated.
Source: Presidential Press – VTV
