Background on Key Figures and Context
Venezuela’s military forces are gearing up for a state of exception, should the United States launch a foreign invasion. This preparation comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, with US President Donald Trump accusing Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro of drug trafficking ties. In response, the US military has deployed warships and aircraft in the Caribbean since August, citing anti-drug operations.
Military Exercises and Preparations
On Saturday, Venezuelan military personnel conducted communication drills in anticipation of a potential conflict. These exercises involved sharing strategies with pro-Chavista militia members and community leaders to maintain communication in case of a foreign invasion.
Venezuela’s Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino López, stated that the country has been implementing defense plans according to the “progression of the aggression” posed by the US military threat over the past 45 days.
Padrino López emphasized that the weekly drills are part of a “continuous offensive.” The military is preparing for a possible external turmoil that would grant President Maduro special powers under a state of exception.
Key Figures and Statements
General Domingo Hernández Lárez, head of Venezuela’s Strategic Operational Command, mentioned that the military is ready to follow Maduro’s orders for a state of exception, transitioning from peace to war should Venezuela face a military aggression.
“Whether it’s drums, smoke, or anything else, we must stay connected,” joked Jorge Rodríguez, President of the National Assembly, who participated in one of the exercise locations.
Padrino López communicated with a group in Caracas via radio transmitter, instructing them to use “all available means” for communication, including messengers.
State television showed images of radio equipment and other communication devices during the exercises.
“We need to become a ‘popular radio network’ – word-of-mouth (boca a boca),” said Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello from the coastal town of La Guaira, about 25 minutes’ drive from Caracas.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is involved in the military exercises? Venezuelan military personnel, pro-Chavista militia members, and community leaders are participating in the communication drills.
- What is the reason for these exercises? The military is preparing for a possible foreign invasion and the subsequent state of exception that would grant President Maduro special powers.
- What is the context of escalating tensions? US President Donald Trump has accused Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro of drug trafficking ties, prompting the US military to deploy warships and aircraft in the Caribbean for anti-drug operations.
- What are the military’s communication strategies? The military plans to use all available means of communication, including traditional methods like word-of-mouth, to maintain connectivity in case of a conflict.
