The US exerts global influence, often leading to the removal of leaders who oppose its policies. However, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro has managed to remain in power, despite US efforts. Maduro and his predecessors have consistently viewed the US as an ‘imperialist’ power and maintained a distance.
The US has imposed sanctions and offered rewards for Maduro’s capture. Recently, the US has increased its military presence in Latin America and sent warships towards Venezuela. In response, Maduro announced the deployment of 4.5 million militia soldiers. Venezuela’s ability to withstand US pressure is a result of its ties to drug cartels, a strong militia, its oil reserves, and its location in the Caribbean Sea. The article explores these elements.
Venezuela’s economy is boosted by its large oil reserves and its connections to international drug cartels, responsible for global drug distribution. The US accuses Maduro of narco-trafficking, and he was indicted in 2020 on charges of narco-terrorism and cocaine trafficking. The drug trade, along with oil, supports Venezuela’s economy.
Following recent US military actions, Maduro declared the deployment of 4.5 million militiamen, emphasizing their readiness and weaponry, and warned against any encroachment on Venezuelan territory. The militia has around 5 million members, which is a significant part of Venezuela’s population of 30 million. It includes reserve brigades, special resistance corps, and regional units. This large militia has played a crucial role in keeping Maduro in power, especially in the face of US attempts at regime change.
Venezuela’s strategic location on the Caribbean Sea, with its northern border bordering the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, provides strategic importance. This controls critical maritime routes for trade and oil export in the Caribbean, although it does not guarantee total protection from potential threats.