Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has announced a significant military mobilisation in response to what he claims was an unauthorised US drone flight over the Caribbean Sea. The leader has ordered the activation of more than 5,600 troops and 600 specialised units in a dramatic show of force.
The deployment, which includes integral defence units and the Bolivarian Militia, is framed as a direct reaction to the alleged incursion. Maduro stated the drone was "on a spy mission" and accused the United States of violating established agreements by failing to notify Caracas of the flight.
Simulated Defence of Disputed Territory
The military exercises, dubbed "Bolivarian Shield 2024", are designed to simulate the defence of the resource-rich Essequibo region—a vast territory currently under dispute between Venezuela and neighbouring Guyana.
This move represents a significant escalation in the long-standing territorial conflict and demonstrates Maduro's commitment to asserting Venezuela's claim over the area, which comprises two-thirds of Guyana's territory but is home to only a fraction of its population.
A History of Tension and Recent Diplomacy
The recent escalation follows a period of eased tensions after Maduro and Guyanese President Irfaan Ali agreed in December to resolve the dispute through peaceful means. Both leaders pledged to refrain from using force and to continue dialogue, a commitment made during a meeting in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
However, this new military deployment suggests a potential shift in strategy from Caracas, raising concerns among international observers about stability in the region.
The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring whether this show of force will lead to renewed diplomatic efforts or further escalation in one of South America's most volatile territorial disputes.
