Venezuela just kicked off its "Independence 200" military drill in the eastern states of Anzoategui, Monagas and Bolivar, activating a new defense command post called ODDI. President Nicolas Maduro says it's all about asserting national sovereignty and keeping citizens safe. 🇻🇪🛡️
Maduro posted on social media that this exercise will "fully exercise national sovereignty" and ensure "the people are winning peace" 🕊️.
Meanwhile, Venezuela's UN ambassador Samuel Moncada slammed the US at an emergency Security Council session, accusing Washington of threatening regional peace. He warned that a US military buildup just off Venezuela's coast makes an armed attack feel alarmingly possible 🚨.
On the US side, the Pentagon revealed a new counter-narcotics joint task force led by the II Marine Expeditionary Force. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says their mission is to "crush the cartels, stop the poison and keep America safe." The team will ramp up maritime patrols, aerial surveillance and precision interdictions across Latin America.
But legal experts and some lawmakers are raising eyebrows. Why did US forces strike four boats in the Caribbean, killing 21 civilians, without public evidence? And why not use the Coast Guard – the go-to agency for maritime law enforcement? Critics say the rules of engagement at sea require non-lethal options first, like warning shots.
As tensions simmer, Moncada reminded the UN that Venezuela reserves the right to self-defense under international norms. With both sides sharpening their tools, peace in the region hinges on dialogue and legal clarity 🌏🤝.
Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding situation! 👀
Reference(s):
Venezuela launches drill amid U.S. military buildup in Latin America
cgtn.com
