Caracas: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro addressed thousands of supporters at a rally in the capital, declaring that the country will not accept a 'slave's peace' amid escalating tensions and potential US military action.
According to Anadolu Agency, Maduro pledged 'absolute loyalty' to Venezuelans during the rally outside the presidential palace. He emphasized the country's desire for peace grounded in 'sovereignty, equality, and freedom,' rejecting any form of colonial subjugation. As Venezuelan flags waved, he asserted, 'We do not want a slave's peace, nor the peace of colonies. Colony, never. Slaves, never.'
The rally coincided with a meeting between US President Donald Trump and national security officials at the White House to discuss 'next steps' regarding Venezuela. This meeting followed a phone conversation between Trump and Maduro, details of which Trump declined to disclose, stating it did not go 'well or badly.'
When questioned about his recent warning concerning Venezuelan airspace, Trump advised against interpreting it as an imminent airstrike. Earlier, he announced that Venezuelan airspace would be 'completely shut down,' prompting a demand from Caracas for 'unconditional respect' for its airspace.
The US has recently expanded military operations across Latin America, deploying various military assets. Trump also indicated imminent actions against Venezuelan drug traffickers following multiple maritime incidents.
Al Jazeera's Teresa Bo reported from the Colombia-Venezuela border that Maduro's public appearance came amid rumors that he had fled the country after Trump's airspace closure announcement. She noted widespread concern among people crossing the Simon Bolivar bridge about a possible US strike.
Bo highlighted Venezuela's deployment of troops nationwide, showcasing military equipment, including air defense systems and fighter jets. Al Jazeera sources acknowledged Venezuela's military limitations against US forces, suggesting a focus on irregular tactics involving criminal groups, government supporters, and possibly guerrillas to generate chaos and anarchy.
Bo concluded that while some Venezuelans hope for Maduro's departure, there is a prevalent fear that violence could engulf the country.