Tehran - BORNA - Vladimir Padrino Lopez, Venezuela’s Minister of Defense, speaking to state television VTV, described the United States as "one of the largest and most destructive empires in human history."
Lopez accused Washington of using military force to impose its interests, stating: "US imperialism is trying to threaten us with bomber planes, missile-equipped warships, and nuclear submarines in the Caribbean. We are slaves to no empire. And what have we done? As a nation, we respond with heads held high."
He also criticized US military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago, near the Venezuelan coastline, declaring that "no air or naval deployment can destroy Venezuela's independence." He added: "No matter how powerful or terrifying it is, nobody can take away our freedom."
Maduro Dismisses US Dictator Narrative
Previously, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, at the premiere of a film held at the Miraflores Presidential Palace, accused the US of trying to portray him as a "dictator" through international media.
Maduro said: "The United States continues to try to say that there is a regime or dictatorship in Venezuela. They repeat this over and over, but this is a completely old narrative."
US Military Presence and Psychological Operations
Tensions have escalated in recent months with the expanded US military presence near Venezuela. US President Donald Trump, under an executive order, authorized greater use of military force to combat what he calls Latin American drug cartels.
Additionally, the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, the world's largest, and its strike group have entered the Latin American region as part of the alleged US counter-narcotics operation.
Meanwhile, informed sources say the US administration has proposed a psychological operation to undermine the morale of the Venezuelan President and encourage him to flee the country. This includes dropping leaflets to pressure him on his birthday.
Informed sources, who wished to remain anonymous, also told the Washington Post that the leaflets are expected to contain a promise of a $50 million reward for any assistance leading to Maduro's arrest and conviction. These leaflets may be dropped today (Sunday), which marks Maduro's 63rd birthday. According to those familiar with the matter, the timing appears to be intentional.
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