Maduro Accuses US of Fabricating War, Targets Opponent’s Citizenship
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has accused the U.S. government of fabricating a war against his administration as tensions rise with the approaching USS Gerald R. Ford. Maduro’s statements came during a national broadcast where he claimed the Trump administration is creating a false narrative aimed at inciting conflict in Venezuela.
Maduro’s Claims Against the U.S.
On Friday night, Maduro emphasized that the U.S. is “fabricating a new eternal war.” This announcement coincided with the movement of the USS Gerald R. Ford, an aircraft carrier capable of launching up to 90 planes and helicopters, closer to Venezuelan waters. He added, “They promised they would never again get involved in a war, and they are fabricating a war that we will avoid.”
Legal Action Against Leopoldo López
Maduro also announced the initiation of legal proceedings to revoke the citizenship of Leopoldo López, a notable opposition politician. López, who has been in exile in Spain since 2020, is accused of promoting military invasions and economic sanctions against Venezuela.
Accusations Against López
- Supposedly instigating military intervention through his support for U.S. naval deployments.
- Accused of calling for mass violence against Venezuelans.
- Allegations of promoting “economic blockage” against the nation.
According to Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, López’s passport will be revoked immediately. She cited his “grotesque, criminal, and illegal” calls for foreign military intervention as justification for this legal action.
Reactions to the Citizenship Revocation
López responded on social media, asserting that the Venezuelan Constitution does not allow for the revocation of nationality for citizens born in Venezuela. He expressed that Maduro’s attempts to strip him of his citizenship stem from his advocacy for freedom.
“Maduro wants to take away my nationality for saying what all Venezuelans think and want: freedom,” López stated, reiterating his support for U.S. military action in Venezuela.
Background on López
Leopoldo López is a prominent opposition figure and previously led anti-government protests in 2014. He served over three years in military prison and was sentenced to more than 13 years for charges related to inciting violence and conspiracy. After being granted house arrest, he eventually fled Venezuela during a political crisis in 2020.
Tensions in Venezuela
Maduro has faced ongoing criticism from various international entities, including the United States, accusing him of human rights violations and electoral fraud. The backdrop of these tensions is further complicated by the activities of drug trafficking groups such as the Tren de Aragua, although they are more known for crimes like extortion and contract killings than global drug trafficking.
American military actions near Venezuela have already led to the destruction of alleged drug trafficking vessels, resulting in over 43 deaths. As the situation evolves, Maduro’s government remains under international scrutiny while navigating its complex internal and external challenges.
