Why it matters:
The drill, held in Bolívar squares nationwide, aimed to test the country’s emergency coordination capabilities between local communities and national security agencies.
The big picture:
Senior political and military leaders, including National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez, visited strategic sites during the exercise.
The situation further escalated on Friday when a Venezuelan vessel was reportedly bombed in national waters, resulting in the deaths of four individuals. The attack was carried out under the pretext of anti-narcotics operations, according to Venezuelan officials.
Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López confirmed that the Venezuelan Armed Forces are monitoring developments closely and will not be drawn into provocations: “Our response will be measured and sovereign.”
What he's saying:
“Venezuela is a country of peace, but it is prepared to defend itself,” Rodríguez stated, emphasizing the nation’s resolve in the face of foreign aggression.
Rodríguez accused the United States of intensifying its hostile posture, citing a recent incident in which five U.S. fighter jets allegedly violated Venezuelan airspace, contravening international aviation protocols. He said that the provocation was intended to intimidate the population, but said it had backfired. “Ninety-four percent of Venezuelans reject U.S. aggression,” he added.
Go deeper:
Venezuela Vows State of Emergency If U.S. Strikes
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
