Maduro calls for mobilization against US warships

Hundreds of Venezuelan citizens, galvanized by Maduro's call, have volunteered to join the National Bolivarian Militia, protesting the US decision to send three warships to the Caribbean. President Nicolas Maduro stated that the militia's participation was "extremely successful" and emphasized the public's display of great patriotism in the face of the US ships. Maduro announced that registrations would continue on Sunday, emphasizing that citizens who join the national defense system the country has built, along with regional forces, combat units, reserves, and their families, are a guarantee of its territorial integrity.

Maduro emphasized the importance of defending the homeland in his statement, saying, “Defending the homeland is a sign of love and a civic duty. Those who do not defend their homeland cannot defend their families or themselves. Those who do not love and admire their country's history and sovereignty lose their souls. I am registering because I love my homeland. You too, register and join the ranks! Long live Venezuela, long live the homeland, long live peace!”

Meanwhile, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, in a statement on social media, urged the public to ignore Maduro's call. "They aim to make it seem like they're defending you, but in reality, their power is weakening," Machado wrote. "Disrespect them, ignore them, leave them alone."

Registration for the National Bolivarian Militia is ongoing, primarily in the capital, Caracas, as well as in the states of Tachira, Vargas, Merida, Trujillo, Barinas, Delta Amacuro, and Zulia. The militia, while subordinate to the military, is considered an auxiliary force composed primarily of civilian volunteers. Its mission is defined as strengthening national defense, ensuring social mobilization, and supporting the armed forces when necessary.

Maduro said in a statement on August 22, "As Commander-in-Chief, I invite all militias, reserve soldiers, and citizens who wish to volunteer to enlist as part of the National Sovereignty and Peace Plan. Venezuela wants peace, and if Venezuela wants peace, there will be peace."

US President Donald Trump had previously signed an executive order calling for the more effective use of the military to combat Latin American drug cartels. Two senior military officials who spoke to CNN said the decision to send 4,000 Marines to the region was made following Trump's order. On August 15, Trump also ordered the deployment of three warships off the coast of Venezuela.