Maduro Rejects a 'Slave's Peace' as U.S. Military Pressure Escalates in Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro addressed thousands in Caracas, rejecting what he called a “slave’s peace” and pledging his “absolute loyalty” to the people as tensions rose over possible U.S. military action.

Speaking outside the Miraflores Palace to a crowd waving national flags, Maduro said Venezuela sought peace only on terms that preserve its sovereignty, equality and freedom.

“We do not want a slave’s peace, nor the peace of colonies! Colony, never! Slaves, never!”

U.S. military posture and counter-narratives

Washington has significantly increased its military presence in the Caribbean, describing the deployments as part of an anti-narcotics campaign. Officials say roughly 15,000 troops have been positioned in the region and that a large aircraft carrier has been dispatched to Caribbean waters. The U.S. has also labelled the so-called Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist-linked trafficking network and has carried out multiple strikes on suspected drug vessels since September, actions U.S. authorities say targeted traffickers and that have reportedly resulted in dozens of deaths.

Analysts note the scale of the U.S. buildup exceeds what is typically required for a conventional counternarcotics operation. Venezuelan authorities maintain the real aim is regime change to gain control over the country’s natural resources, including its oil.

Diplomacy, negotiations and disputed reports

Reports from sources familiar with private discussions say a phone call took place in which an offer of safe passage was reportedly discussed. According to those sources, Maduro signalled he would consider leaving if he and his family received full legal amnesty, the lifting of sanctions and dismissal of major international legal actions against him. He also sought removal of sanctions on more than 100 government officials. The interlocutors say most of those demands were rejected and that a limited window for departure was discussed but later closed. Neither government issued an immediate public confirmation of those details.

Domestic response and border concerns

Along the Colombia–Venezuela border, a field reporter noted heightened anxiety among people crossing the Simón Bolívar International Bridge, many of whom expressed fear of a possible strike on Caracas. Venezuelan authorities have redeployed military units to protect key approaches to the capital, including highways to the airport and coastal areas, and displayed air defenses and fighter jets.

Observers say Venezuela’s armed forces are outmatched by U.S. military power. As a result, officials appear to be preparing alternative defensive measures that could include irregular tactics such as sabotage, the use of paramilitary groups or other asymmetric methods—steps critics warn could increase chaos and violence if confrontation escalates.

The situation remains fluid. Citizens and regional observers continue to watch for diplomatic moves, shifting deployments and any new offers or deadlines that could change the political landscape in Caracas.