In light of the Trump administration’s recent deployment of U.S. warships to the Caribbean, Venezuela has reacted by mobilizing military troops and stockpiling weapons. Officials in Venezuela describe this buildup as a “prolonged resistance,” involving small military units that have been executing guerrilla tactics and sabotage across more than 280 locations, as per intelligence sources and previously classified tactical planning documents.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the Trump administration of attempting to oust him from power and stated that the Venezuelan populace will defend their country against any perceived American aggression.
Recently, a U.S. Navy destroyer, the USS Gerald R. Ford, arrived near Trinidad and Tobago as Trump intensifies his efforts against drug trafficking. In response, Maduro has mobilized the Venezuelan military. Moreover, the administration has conducted a series of airstrikes on vessels suspected of smuggling drugs in the Caribbean, also hinting at potential ground operations in Venezuela. “Next is land,” Trump remarked.
According to Pentagon Chief Press Secretary Sean Parnell, the increased U.S. military presence in the region aims to bolster efforts in detecting and disrupting illegal activities that threaten the security of the U.S. and the Western Hemisphere. This build-up also aims to target drug trafficking and criminal networks.
In response to the mounting U.S. military presence, Maduro lambasted Trump for “manufacturing a new forever war.” Reports indicate significant disparities in resources between U.S. and Venezuelan forces. Some Venezuelan commanders are reportedly negotiating with local farmers to secure food supplies for their troops.
Part of Venezuela’s defense strategy appears to involve unconventional, guerrilla-style tactics. A source familiar with the government noted, “In a normal war, it would last less than two hours.” Recently, Russia’s Foreign Ministry expressed readiness to assist Venezuela but cautioned against escalating the situation.
