Venezuela, the oil-rich South American nation, has begun preparations to defend itself against the possibility of a U.S. military operation. According to NBC News, citing American officials, such an operation could begin within weeks if plans are finalized.
In Caracas, ordinary citizens, including elderly residents, have taken up arms for training. BBC News reported that the administration of President Nicolás Maduro has reactivated the National Bolivarian Militia, originally formed in 2009 under the leadership of the late Hugo Chávez.
Among those preparing is 68-year-old Edith Perales, who said she is ready to answer the call of the homeland. On Saturday, a military drill titled “Barracks to the People” was held in Petare, a district of the capital, featuring Russian-made tanks and unloaded rifles as locals received training.
Men, women, and even children participated in the exercises. Francisco Ojeda, 69, held a rifle while lying in a combat position, declaring he was prepared to give his life if necessary. Similarly, 67-year-old Glady Rodríguez insisted that Venezuelans would never accept U.S. aggression.
Benigno Alarcón, a professor at Andrés Bello Catholic University, argued that the militia’s role may be less about combat and more about serving as human shields, a tactic that could increase civilian casualties and put pressure on U.S. forces. Maduro claims that more than 8.2 million Venezuelans are part of militias and reserves, though this figure has been questioned.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yván Gil Pinto denounced U.S. military plans as an “illegal and immoral threat.” He vowed that Caracas would mount strong resistance and called on the international community for support.
Sources: NBC News, BBC