In a decisive move to bolster national security, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro unveiled the commencement of extensive military exercises on Saturday. Dubbed the ‘Great Corridor of the Venezuelan Plain,’ these drills are a pivotal component of the broader ‘Independence 200’ initiative, aimed at fortifying the nation’s defenses against perceived US military threats. The exercises, which span the central states of Barinas, Portuguesa, Cojedes, and Guarico, are part of a comprehensive nationwide mobilization designed to enhance Venezuela’s readiness for potential external aggression. Maduro emphasized the activation of all integral defense zones across the country, stating that 27 fundamental defense tasks have been successfully completed. The president underscored the seamless coordination among civilian, police, and military sectors, describing it as ‘a perfect and organized fusion’ to protect national sovereignty and internal stability. Maduro reiterated Venezuela’s commitment to peace, pointing to what he termed as a US military buildup in the Caribbean near Venezuelan waters. The drills aim to achieve ‘the optimal level of readiness’ through widespread civic participation and territorial coordination, ensuring the nation’s preparedness in the face of escalating tensions.