Why it matters:
The move highlights Venezuela’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty against external pressures, which President Maduro described as “imperialist madness.” He affirmed that the nation is fully prepared to defend its rights and independence with unwavering "patriotism and courage," ready to confront both armed and hybrid threats.
Venezuela’s activation of the Comprehensive Defense Commands marks a significant shift in the country’s security posture, placing all government institutions, military bodies, police forces, and grassroots organisations under a single defense structure. By turning this doctrine into law and immediately implementing it, President Nicolás Maduro signals that the government sees the current moment as one of heightened vulnerability.
The move comes amid reports pointing to increased US military activity near Venezuela, with American forces repositioning assets in the Caribbean despite U.S. President Donald Trump publicly rejecting any plans for direct attack. This internal mobilization against external military pressure suggests that Caracas is preparing for a broad spectrum of potential confrontations—military, political, psychological, and economic.
The big picture:
Washington claims its operation targets drug-trafficking networks, but regional observers note that the scale and nature of the military deployments suggest preparations for potential offensive action or coercive pressure against the Venezuelan government.
In response, Maduro has framed the law as part of an “indigenous doctrine” for preserving peace, organizing national, state, and municipal authorities into a readiness system, and integrating citizens into defense efforts. In this context, the law serves both as an internal organization and a signal of Venezuela’s preparedness to respond.
What he's saying:
President Nicolás Maduro framed the activation of this law as an essential step for national sovereignty, declaring:
“From this moment, all Comprehensive Defense Commands—which unite government institutions, the military, and people’s power—must be activated and move to full readiness.”
“This is a step toward advancing an indigenous doctrine and integrated development concept for preserving peace in the face of imperialist madness and permanent, failed psychological warfare.”
“This is a step toward advancing an indigenous doctrine and integrated development concept for preserving peace in the face of imperialist madness and permanent, failed psychological warfare.”
“This law lays the foundation for a new organizational model for the peace and sovereignty of Venezuela, encompassing all levels of government, to achieve the integrated readiness of the nation against any armed or non-armed threat.”
“If, as a republic and a people, we are forced to enter armed struggle to defend this sacred legacy of our liberators, we will be ready to win and prevail through patriotism and courage.”
“The ultimate goal is solely to guarantee national peace through deterrence, based on the complete integration of the people, the military, and the police.”
Go deeper:
Maduro Issues a Stark Ultimatum to U.S.
U.S. Forces Moving Toward Venezuela as Trump Rejects Attack Plans
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