CARACAS (Realist English). Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro pledged on Tuesday to oppose any U.S. attempt to remove him from power, telling supporters in Caracas that Venezuela must be prepared to “defend every inch” of its territory amid intensifying pressure from the Trump administration.
Addressing a large rally in military fatigues and holding a ceremonial sword, the 63-year-old leader said the country faced an “imperialist threat” following a series of U.S. maritime operations. Since September, U.S. forces have carried out at least 21 strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking in international waters, killing more than 80 people. Washington has alleged that several vessels departed from Venezuela, a claim Maduro denounced as an assault on national sovereignty.
Cuba also condemned the U.S. actions, warning that efforts to forcefully remove Maduro would be “dangerous, irresponsible and a violation of international law.” Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez urged Americans to “stop this madness,” arguing that any escalation could destabilize the entire region.
Inside Venezuela, senior officials accused Washington of pursuing economic motives. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez claimed the U.S. sought control over Venezuela’s oil, gas, gold and other strategic resources. The criticism comes as the Trump administration designated the Cartel de los Soles a foreign terrorist organization, alleging Maduro’s involvement in drug trafficking — accusations Caracas calls fabricated.
Despite charges of electoral fraud and ongoing human rights concerns, Maduro remains in office for a third term, while the United States — like the previous Biden administration — refuses to recognize him as Venezuela’s legitimate leader.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump suggested he may be open to direct talks with Maduro, saying: “If we can save lives and do things the easy way, that’s fine. And if we have to do it the hard way, that’s fine too.”
U.S. officials have not confirmed reports that Washington is preparing a new phase of operations targeting Venezuela, though analysts warn that continued pressure risks further instability. Former Pentagon official Carlos Diaz Rosillo told Sky News he does not expect a U.S. military intervention but believes Washington will maintain “maximum pressure” while viewing internal military dynamics in Venezuela as the likely source of any power shift.
