Storm in the Caribbean: Maduro Defies U.S. with Militia Call

Kokcha News Agency – Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has called on citizens to join the National Bolivarian Militia after the U.S. deployed three warships to the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela. Hundreds have reportedly volunteered, with Maduro describing the recruitment drive as “extremely successful” and a display of “massive patriotism” in the face of U.S. military presence.

Maduro, speaking on state television, emphasized that the militia, along with regional forces, reserves, and their families, are the “guarantors of territorial integrity.” He stated, “The defense of the homeland is an act of love and a civic duty. Those who do not defend their homeland cannot defend their families or themselves. Those who do not love and admire their country’s history and sovereignty lose their souls. I am enlisting because I love my country. Join us, enlist! Long live Venezuela, long live the homeland, long live peace!”

Opposition Reacts:
Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado urged the public to ignore Maduro’s call, stating on social media, “They want to make it seem like they are defending you, but in reality, power is weakening. Disrespect them, ignore them, leave them alone.”

What is the Bolivarian Militia?
The National Bolivarian Militia is a civilian auxiliary force tied to the Venezuelan military, composed primarily of civilian volunteers. Its role is to strengthen national defense, ensure social mobilization, and support the armed forces when necessary. Maduro, in a statement on August 22, invited all militias, reserve soldiers, and volunteers to enlist under the “National Sovereignty and Peace Plan,” stating, “Venezuela wants peace, and if Venezuela wants peace, there will be peace.”

U.S. Military Deployment:
U.S. President Donald Trump, under an earlier executive order, authorized increased military action against Latin American drug cartels. According to CNN, two senior military officials confirmed that 4,000 Marines were sent to the region following Trump’s directive. On August 15, Trump also ordered three warships to be deployed off the coast of Venezuela.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro criticized the move, suggesting that the fight against drug trafficking is being used as a pretext for military intervention.