Chavismo Consolidates Power and Prepares for Potential Confrontation with the U.S.
Despite predictions of collapse, the Chavista government in Venezuela, led by Nicolás Maduro, has demonstrated resilience, maintaining control through a strategic distribution of power and a heightened posture of defense against perceived external threats, particularly from the United States. Maduro’s continued hold on power, initially unexpected by many, mirrors the political acumen of his predecessor, Hugo Chávez, utilizing a network of loyalists to secure control across all levels of the state.
This consolidation has allowed Chavismo to navigate internal challenges, though the long-term stability remains uncertain. Maduro recently proclaimed victory in an election, though without providing supporting evidence, positioning himself to perhaps equal Chávez’s time in office within a year and a half.
Facing ongoing tensions with the U.S., Maduro has increasingly emphasized a defensive stance. He announced “Operation Independence 200,” a mobilization of national capabilities intended to prepare for potential armed aggression. This includes calls for widespread military training, urging citizens to participate in exercises and learn firearms proficiency, framing it as a ”popular-military fusion” in defense of the homeland.
Key figures supporting this strategy include the Rodríguez siblings, Delcy and Jorge, who wield notable political influence despite lacking military backgrounds. Delcy Rodríguez has actively addressed both militiamen and soldiers, reinforcing the narrative of an armed defense of Chavismo.
Recent events have heightened this sense of impending threat. The government initially claimed a video depicting an attack on a Venezuelan vessel by a U.S. missile was created using artificial intelligence, a claim later refuted by Diosdado Cabello, a prominent Chavista leader. Cabello asserted that investigations confirmed the deaths of eleven individuals aboard the vessel and that they were not involved in illicit activities. This incident has fueled accusations against the United States and prompted calls for international scrutiny.
Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López has publicly affirmed Venezuela’s readiness, stating the armed forces are in “maximum readiness” despite U.S. “psychological operations.” He emphasized a willingness to defend the nation, speaking on behalf of both the military and the broader population.
Despite maintaining a public facade of strength,concerns are evident within the presidential palace,Miraflores. Maduro, while not displaying outward signs of weakness, recognizes the potential danger, particularly from a maritime approach. He recently rallied troops with the declaration, “This town has who defends it!”
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