Background on Nicolás Maduro
Nicolás Maduro, the current President of Venezuela, has been in power since 2013. He succeeded Hugo Chávez after his death, following a long career in Venezuelan politics and trade unions. Maduro’s presidency has been marked by economic turmoil, political unrest, and international disputes.
US Military Deployment in the Caribbean Sea
The United States has dispatched three warships to the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela as part of an anti-drug trafficking operation. This move, however, has been perceived by Maduro as a threat rather than a counter-narcotics effort.
Maduro’s Response
At a gathering with lawmakers in the National Assembly, Maduro strongly condemned the US military deployment, labeling it as “immoral, criminal, and illegal.” He warned of a potential “terrorist military strike” against Venezuela, aiming to orchestrate a regime change.
US Accusations Against Maduro
The United States accuses Maduro of leading a drug trafficking organization called the “Cartel of the Suns.” President Trump has labeled this group as a terrorist organization. Furthermore, the US has offered a $10 million bounty for information leading to Maduro’s capture.
Maduro’s Counterarguments
In response to these accusations, Maduro emphasized the issues of peace, international law, and regional solidarity. He stated that any aggression towards one Latin American nation is an attack on the entire region, and called for national unity.
Maduro’s Military Measures
This week, Maduro ordered the deployment of 4.5 million members from the Milicia, a civilian body under the Venezuelan Armed Forces. He also called for a military enlistment over the weekend to bolster their ranks.
US Recognition of Maduro’s Legitimacy
The United States does not recognize Maduro’s most recent re-election for a third term of six years, which both he and the opposition have labeled as fraudulent.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Nicolás Maduro? Nicolás Maduro is the current President of Venezuela, who has been in power since 2013 following Hugo Chávez’s death.
- What is the US military deployment near Venezuela for? The United States claims it is part of an anti-drug trafficking operation in the Caribbean Sea.
- How has Maduro responded to the deployment? Maduro strongly condemned the deployment, calling it “immoral, criminal, and illegal,” and warning of a potential military strike.
- What accusations does the US make against Maduro? The United States accuses Maduro of leading a drug trafficking organization called the “Cartel of the Suns” and has offered a reward for his capture.
- What measures has Maduro taken in response? Maduro ordered the deployment of 4.5 million members from the Milicia and called for military enlistment to strengthen their forces.
- Does the US recognize Maduro’s recent re-election? No, the United States does not acknowledge Maduro’s latest re-election, which both he and the opposition have deemed fraudulent.
