Venezuela has taken measures to increase security along its border with Colombia, at a time when the administration of US President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of warships to the southern Caribbean, with the aim of cracking down on drug cartels in the region.
According to Venezuelan authorities, around 15,000 police and military troops have been deployed in the border states of Zulia and Táchira. The news was confirmed by Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, who in a statement to the media said that these forces will be joined by naval vessels, aircraft and drones to guarantee security and maintain peace on the border.
"The president has ordered this deployment in order to maintain peace. If someone intends to enter our territory through the border, they will not be able to do so," Cabello said. He also called on Colombia to take similar measures, emphasizing the good relations between the two countries.
Meanwhile, the United States has confirmed that three warships carrying over 4,000 sailors and soldiers are headed to the region. President Trump has reportedly asked the Pentagon to prepare for possible military operations in Latin America, causing concern among leaders in the region.
Last week, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro denied reports of US military intervention, but at the same time called on citizens to join the ranks of the militias to defend the country. State media has already begun airing advertisements encouraging participation in the recruitment campaign.
