In response to increased pressure from the United States, Venezuela is actively implementing a multi-faceted strategy. The US, under President Trump, has targeted Venezuela citing drug control measures. The US deployment of warships near Venezuela has intensified tensions, prompting a strategic response from the Nicolas Maduro government. Venezuela is following a three-part strategy.
Key Components of Venezuela’s Strategy:
1. **International Partnerships:** Venezuela is actively seeking alliances with nations that are typically opposed to the US. China has expressed its backing and condemned the US naval actions, arguing they violate Venezuelan sovereignty. The Venezuelan Foreign Minister has engaged in talks with Iran, leading to an agreement to jointly resist US pressures. Venezuela is also trying to get support from Brazil and Russia, which have displayed anti-American sentiments.
2. **Military Readiness and Deployment:** Venezuela has decided to deploy 15,000 soldiers to its border with Colombia, where the United States has stationed 4,000 Marines and three ships. Reports indicate that Venezuela will receive Iranian Shahed drones, which could be used to attack US naval vessels.
3. **Political Strategy and Rhetoric:** President Nicolas Maduro has criticized the US, claiming that the US is targeting Venezuela to maintain its global influence. Venezuela has also indicated that it is preparing to activate its militias, groups that are considered dangerous due to their links to drug cartels.
The Genesis of the Current Tensions:
The US offered a $50 million reward for Nicolas Maduro’s capture in August 2025, accusing Venezuela of being a major transit point for drugs heading to America. White House spokesperson Carolina Laviet identified Maduro as a leader of a drug cartel. Furthermore, a report in The Daily Mail suggested that Iranian terrorists had used Venezuela as a route to enter the US, which is considered a serious threat. Consequently, the US government has intensified its measures against Venezuela, which, on the other hand, accuses the US of intentionally damaging its reputation.