Maduro Gathers Civic Militia Volunteers in Venezuela, Citing Imminent US Invasion
In the heart of Caracas, thousands of citizens answered President NicolΓ‘s Maduro's call to join the Bolivarian Militia over the weekend. The move comes in response to perceived threats from the United States, which has stationed three warships off Venezuela's coast and doubled the bounty on Maduro to $50 million.
The Bolivarian Militia, a civilian corps linked to Venezuela's armed forces, has been a cornerstone of Maduro's regime. The militia, named after former Venezuelan socialist president Hugo Chavez, uses "Chavez lives!" as their official greeting. However, the exact size of the militia remains unclear. While Maduro claims over 4.5 million ready soldiers, the International Institute for Strategic Studies estimates its membership at around 343,000.
During registration, volunteers were taken through a room displaying weapons, including a US-made machine gun, a Swedish grenade launcher, a Soviet RPG launcher, and a Belgian machine gun. An army lieutenant explained the use of each weapon. After registration, volunteers were shown a documentary about a historical European blockade on Venezuela's coast.
The US alleges Maduro is leading the Cartel of the Suns, a drug trafficking group that has been designated a terrorist organization. Maduro, on the other hand, has described the US moves as an "illegal" attempt at regime change. His opposition has urged people not to enlist in the Bolivarian Militia.
The US has sent armed forces to the Caribbean, coinciding with the increased pressure on Maduro. The Venezuelan Armed Forces do not hide the militia's political bent. The militia's registration centers were set up in Caracas' squares, military and public buildings, and the presidential palace Miraflores. Even a 78-year-old woman named Omaira Hernandez expressed her willingness to help the Bolivarian Militia, despite not being able to carry a rifle.
The US has also issued a $50 million bounty for the arrest of President Maduro, who is accused by the Trump administration of leading a drug cartel. Maduro's opposition has called for people not to enlist in the Bolivarian Militia, fearing it could escalate tensions. However, the militia's members remain steadfast, ready to defend their country against perceived threats.
