Why it matters:
The march comes amid ongoing political and economic tensions, with Venezuela facing U.S. military threats and increasing international pressure.
The big picture:
The event, attended by senior officials and military leaders, honored national symbols and reaffirmed Venezuela’s resistance to external pressures, particularly from the United States.
What he's saying:
Maduro brandished the sword of independence hero Simón Bolívar while addressing crowds at the Fuerte Tiuna military academy.
“The homeland demands our greatest effort and sacrifice, and with Bolívar I say: if the homeland calls, it shall have our lives if necessary.”
Maduro rejected U.S. threats, stressing Venezuela is at a “decisive stage” where “failure is impossible.” He vowed the nation “will never return to being a colony” and will remain “forever free and independent.”
Go deeper:
Maduro: U.S. Attack on Venezuela Would Be “Political Suicide” for Trump
Hossein Amiri - ahmad shirzadian
