Maduro warns US: ‘If the gringos attack, we will respond’
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has warned the United States against military action, vowing to defend the country if attacked
CARACAS, Venezuela (MNTV) – Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has warned the United States against military action, vowing to defend the country if attacked, as Washington expands its military presence in the Caribbean.
Speaking at the inauguration of a hospital in Caracas, Maduro said, “If they threaten us, we will work harder. If the gringos attack, we will respond, but nothing will stop our work.”
His remarks came as reports indicated that the US has deployed around 10,000 troops to the region, stationed in Puerto Rico and aboard eight surface warships and a submarine. The forces have been conducting joint exercises, with US officials claiming to have intercepted four vessels allegedly carrying drugs bound for the United States.
In response, Venezuela has launched “Independence Plan 200,” a nationwide defense exercise aimed at protecting critical infrastructure. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the country was “mobilizing in an organized manner,” describing Venezuelans as “peaceful” but “actively preparing on all fronts to resist for as long as needed.”
Maduro stated the drills include “27 tasks to ensure the protection of La Guaira and Carabobo’s Integral Defense Zone.”
Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López accused the United States of planning covert operations, warning of potential “special forces incursions” to sabotage vital systems or target senior officials. “There are many ways to attack us,” he said, citing threats to “electrical and gas systems, train lines, and targeted assassinations.”
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has reportedly ordered the suspension of all diplomatic outreach to Caracas, instructing envoy Richard Grenell to end backchannel efforts. According to The New York Times, the Trump administration has considered several military contingency plans amid frustration over Maduro’s refusal to step down and continued denials of alleged cartel ties.
Qatar has offered to mediate between the two countries, but US officials have reportedly dismissed the Gulf nation’s initiative, preferring to maintain military pressure on Caracas.
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