Venezuelan President Maduro Prepares to Declare State of Emergency Amid U.S. Threats

International Desk | PNN

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has taken steps to declare a state of emergency in response to U.S. military activities and multiple deadly attacks. In a televised address on Monday, he stated that if the country faces a threat of attack, special measures would be implemented according to the constitution to protect the people, maintain peace, and ensure stability.

Earlier, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez informed diplomats that Maduro had signed a special decree granting him additional powers in defense and security matters. This authority allows the military to exercise direct control over the country’s oil industry and public service sectors.

Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump deployed eight warships, a nuclear submarine, and F-35 stealth fighters to the Caribbean Sea. The U.S. claims these measures are part of an anti-drug operation. However, according to United Nations data, Venezuela is not a major source of cocaine to the United States.

The U.S. military has already destroyed at least three small boats in international waters, killing 17 Venezuelans. The Caracas government has described this as a de facto undeclared war, while international experts have labeled the attacks as “extrajudicial killings.”

Maduro emphasized that Venezuela seeks to maintain peaceful relations but is prepared to take any necessary steps to protect its sovereignty. The decree he signed will initially remain in effect for 90 days, with the possibility of a 90-day extension if needed.